Interview

What book(s) have you written?

• Fatima Al-Fihri, The founder of the worlds first university
• Huda's Hijab
• Remarkable Muslim Women Throughout the Ages, 20 Stories of Faith, Courage & Resilience
• Mr Blue in Rainbow Planet, A story of staying true to who you are
• The Rebirth of Love: The Journey to Self-Love
• The Forbidden Relationship: A Handbook on Love, Lust & Heartbreaks
• Words of Wisdom: A collection of words of wisdom by renowned Muslim Speakers from around the world.
• The Ocean of Inspiration

When did you first realize you wanted to be an author?

My passion for dawah ignited the writer within me. It was more about the message than being an author. I began writing in 2013 after I had my 4th child.

How long did it take you to write your book(s)?

It varies from book to book. I completed some of the stories from my new book 'Remarkable Muslim Women' in 2017. 

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

I don't follow a set schedule. However, I let all my ideas pour out and let my writing naturally flow.

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I'm inspired by Islam and my children. I want to inspire Muslims to be proud of their faith and to stay true to their Muslim identity, to inspire self-love and a deeper connection to God. To break down misconceptions about Muslims and combat bigotry and hate. To portray a true representation of Muslims and the richness and diversity of the Muslim faith. To give our youth remarkable role models. I get my ideas for my books from my values and faith, and ultimately all goodness is from Allah.

What do you like to do when you're not writing?

Spending time with my family and serving my community. I run a book club and a mobile library service.

What does your family think of your writing?

Alhamdulillah my kids are my biggest cheerleaders.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Subhanallah, how words can have such a powerful impact on a person's life and bring more good than you could've possibly imagined. 

Do you have any suggestions to help people become a better writer? If so, what are they?

Write from your heart. Renew your intentions. Remember why you started and keep going.  

What do you think makes a good story?

Authenticity.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

Be a good Muslim and a Mum.

What is your favorite book?

Apart from the Qur'an, I don't have one. 

Where do you live?

Scotland, UK

10 things about me:

I’m a big kid at heart, I love being silly around my kids, nephews and nieces.

I’m that parent you’ll see sliding down the zip-line and swinging high from the swings.

I used to have clothes bursting out of my wardrobes but now I'm a proud minimalist.

I conquered my fear of spiders after I had my first baby.

I’m an outgoing introvert - also known as an ambivert.

I was a big Roald Dahl fan as a kid.

I have a Ragdoll cat called Snow.

I love pink tea (Kashmiri chai) with a lot of pistachios.

My family and faith mean the world to me.

I have written 8 books.