In the Muslim community, the media that we consume matters. We believe sinful content such as swearing, inappropriate relationships and sexual content contradicts with our Islamic values. But that does not have to stop us from reading halal books.
A halal book isn’t a religious book. Instead, it’s a book that avoids explicit and inappropriate content and promotes values that align with Islam.
So, here are eight Muslim friendly books that I recommend to anyone.
“Khadijah: Mother of History’s Greatest Nation” by Fatima Barkatulla. This book talks about Khadija (رضي الله عنها) and her being the first wife of Prophet Muhammed, (صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ) as well as her life as not only the first Muslim woman but the first Muslim believer after the Prophet (صَلَّى ٱللَّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ). It’s a nonfiction book and super educational and inspirational. It acknowledges her strength, intelligence and caring traits. It’s perfect for young Muslim girls.
Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali is a romance book about two Muslim teenagers. It’s about finding identity and going through family and internal struggles. It’s completely clean and respectful. It emphasizes faith and connection.
“Still With You” by Mishel Zara is a book about love, loss, growing emotionally and reflecting on her faith, life and emotional and physical growth in a thoughtful way. It focuses on internal struggles and healing. It is also another fictional romance book, and has no inappropriate content. A completely safe read.
“As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow” by Zoulfa Katouh is a fictional book that takes place during the Syrian Revolution. It revolves around a young girl going through fear and loss, trying to find hope in the time of the war. It highlights resilience, faith and emotional strength. This book is super emotional and has some very upsetting scenes because, again, it’s at a time of war.
“Timeless Seeds of Advice” by B.B. Abdulla is an educational and Islamic-focused book. This book contains short, strong Islamic reminders. It mentions learning to change by growing through character, patience and faith. This is a book you could read a thousand times to reflect on yourself.
“How Becoming Muslim Made Me Feminine” by Rashidah Shabazz is a must for Muslim teenage girls. It talks about racism and stereotypes associated with Islamophobia, particularly debunking the stereotype that women are “oppressed” under Islamic faith. It mentions how Islam empowers women. Themes about identity, modesty and feminism are mentioned through an Islamic lens.
“Women in Islamic Sharia” by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan is another nonfiction book. It informs the reader about the rights, roles and respect that women in Islam get and deserve. It breaks down all Islamic misconceptions and helps give a deeper dive into a woman’s status in Islam.
“Secrets of Divine Love” by A. Helwa is another spiritual book. It talks about having a personal and meaningful connection with God. It combines reflections and the Quran and applies it to the modern world.
These books will protect your faith and will be a great use of your time. Whether you’re trying to learn something new, reflect or entertain yourself, these books will do that and in a completely safe and halal way.
