Writing my first Muslim children’s book, Layla Learns Qur’an, wasn’t just about putting a story on paper — it came from observations, concerns, and real conversations in our home and community. As a Muslim mother, homeschooler, and educator, I saw a gap in the stories available to our children. I wrote this book to help fill that gap — with something grounded, accessible, and authentically Islamic.
Here are seven reasons why I decided to write this book:
1. Muslim Children Deserve Books That Reflect Their Real Lives
I believe books should be both mirrors and windows — a chance to see yourself and also see into the world of others. While representation has improved, we often see surface-level inclusivity: a girl in hijab, a boy named Ahmed. But the faith, culture, and daily life of Muslim children are rarely central to the story.
While I appreicate that there are more Muslim characters ideally the books should be written by Muslim authors. Our kids need books that reflect their real experiences and values — where being Muslim isn’t just part of the background, but part of the story itself.
2. A Family Like Ours Belongs in Books Too
Many Muslim families don’t look like the typical images in children’s publishing. I wanted to include a family where the parents are of different racial backgrounds, and the setting feels familiar to many Muslims around the world.
The masjid in the story — a small, sandy neighbourhood masjid with stray cats — resembles many local masajid in places like Jeddah. It may not be grand but it feels real and relatable for a lot of families.
3. We Need Muslim Children’s Books That Teach Islamic Growth Mindset
When my daughter struggled with learning Qur’an, I found myself giving her the same pep talk every day: “Try again. Make du’aa. Allah sees your effort.” Eventually, I recorded it — and just played it the next day which earned me some giggles.
That’s when I realised: this message could be more impactful as a story. I wanted to create a book that teaches perseverance and effort through the lens of Islamic values and Prophetic examples.
4. Positive Portrayals of Parents and Teachers Matter
Too often in children’s books, the parents and teachers are the antagonists — dismissive, distracted, or discouraging. But in many children’s lives, adults play an active and supportive role.
I wanted to write a story where the adults are gentle, present, and encouraging. Parents and teachers in Layla’s world support her in meaningful and respectful ways.
5. A Book with a Clear, Positive Islamic Message
This Muslim children’s book is designed to be beneficial, not just entertaining. It includes references to du’aa, Qur’an, and the Sunnah, and encourages children to apply what they learn in a practical way.
This isn’t just a story with an Islamic backdrop — it’s a story with an Islamic message woven throughout, delivered in a warm and engaging style.
6. The Prophets Are Real Role Models — Let’s Show Kids How
Layla reflects on the stories of Prophets like Yunus, Nuh, and Zakariya — not as distant figures, but as examples to learn from. These stories are introduced in a way that helps children understand how to apply their lessons in their own lives.
The aim was to highlight the values of du’aa, patience, and hope in Allah — without being overly didactic or heavy-handed.
7. We Need Quality Muslim Children’s Books for Literacy in Schools and Homes
Islamic schools and homeschoolers often struggle to find books that are both rich in language and strong in Islamic content. I wanted to write a book that would work well for close reading, with:
- Rhyme and descriptive language
- Layered themes and emotional nuance
- Beautiful, faceless illustrations
Whether used at home or in the classroom, this book is designed to support both Islamic learning and literacy development.
Layla Learns Qur’an was written to respond to real needs I saw in our communities — a need for a Muslim children’s book that feels both authentic and relatable — in homes, in masajid, and in schools. I hope it helps children feel seen, supported, and connected to their faith.
The book is now available to purchase!
You can find Layla Learns Qur’an here:
Choose whichever store is easiest for you — and Jazakum Allahu khayran for supporting authentic Islamic stories for children.
Here are some other blog posts you may be interested in:
5 Ways Islamic Stories for Kids Build Emotional Intelligence (and a Love for Allah)
