4/5 (physical book)

I am very grateful I picked it up. Muslim Girl: A Coming of Age by Amani Al-Khatahtbeh (https://muslimgirl.com/book/) is the memoir of a young Muslim girl coming of age in a racist, horrific, war-filled United States. Al-Khatahtbeh tells what it was like for her growing up Muslim in New Jersey, both before and after the tragedies of 9/11. Her story is raw and honest, telling readers about the appalling biases that plague our nation, even to this day.

The audiobook is read by the author, making it really engaging to hear her story from her mouth. I think this is a great way for young readers to understand the importance of memoir stories along with their impacts on modern society. I also think this book is a good conversation starter for systemic racism, biases, and injustices that still leak into our society. 

Muslim Girl delves into the self-discovery of identity and how it can often be a battle to accept and embrace who you are. Al-Khatahtbeh shares the many experiences she had with identity and the struggles of accepting all facets of her life, no matter the judgments that come with them. She is a role model of overcoming biases and discrimination to accept and love who she is, something that is a great lesson for all (young) readers. 

Al-Khatahtbeh created the successful website Muslimgirl.com (linked below and explain in her memoir) that empowers Muslim women and girls by giving them a clear, pronounced voice in a world that tries to silence them. 

Website: https://muslimgirl.com/