Salaam! Hi, there! This post is about why I write. And why you should, too!

I write to tell others about Islam in a way that many people are familiar with, through stories. I write both fiction and nonfiction, but fiction is what many young people read and thus comfortable with. I write about Islam from what I’ve learned and would like to share (and I’m always learning!), and my way of telling others about Islam is through writing. It’s a medium that I love and most comfortable with, is accessible to both males and females.

In my works, I include Islam in subtle and not-so-subtle ways, from the actions of the characters to descriptions and even chapter titles. In my upcoming debut novel, A Thousand Silver Crescents, this is a Muslim Science-Fiction/Fantasy—the characters are Muslim and they have Islamic values and beliefs despite being set in a futuristic/space setting.

This is not something new. Many Christian writers have done similar things to incorporate their messages into their works. I express my understanding of Islam, of what is obliged for us Muslims, through my writing in hopes that people learn about Islam. 

I write for my former students, who loved reading my imperfect, unedited stories, and I hope they, too get the chance to have my books in their hands one day, in sha Allah.

I also write for myself. I write the stories I want to read, the stories I wish I read growing up, so now, I’m giving others that chance—to read what’s not out there.

If you feel like you haven’t read anything that interests you, then why not write it? If something’s troubling you, write it down. I’ve heard somewhere that if you write down your negative thoughts and emotions, or even the negative comments you receive on a small piece of paper and then burn it, you’ll feel much better! (Though I’ve yet to do this myself–I haven’t gotten any negative comments on my works, but I’ll let you know once I do!)

So don’t let anything keep you from writing. Write from the heart. Write what your soul says. Write your truths and beliefs. There’s a reader out there who needs to hear it, too.