Nai'ma Robert - She Wore Red Trainers
Can Ali and Amirah ever have a halal "happily ever after"?
In the realm of YA stories Naima B. Robert's novel, "She Wore Red Trainers," stands out as a poignant and heart-warming halal tale of love, faith, and cultural identity.
Set against the backdrop of a traditional Muslim community, the story revolves around Amirah, a young woman who dares to defy societal expectations and pursue her heart's desires.
Amirah's world is turned upside down when she encounters Ali, a charismatic fellow Muslim student, who challenges her deeply ingrained beliefs and opens her eyes to a world of possibilities beyond her sheltered upbringing. Their blossoming romance, amidst the backdrop of cultural norms and family expectations, forms the crux of the narrative.
Na'ima weaves together themes of self-discovery, love, and faith with sensitivity and authenticity. She masterfully portrays the complexities of navigating traditional values while embracing personal aspirations, a struggle that resonates with Muslims across the world.
Praise for She Wore Red Trainers
"She Wore Red Trainers is a beautiful and inspiring novel that captures the essence of young love and the importance of self-belief. Naima B. Robert's writing is both poignant and heartwarming, and her characters are relatable and endearing. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a story that will touch their heart." – Amazon Reviewer
"Alternating between Amirah and Ali's perspectives, Robert (Black Sheep) teases out the subtleties of young romance and the confounding pull of mutual attraction... it speaks vividly to conflicts of freedom, temptation, and faith. –Publishers Weekly
"Robert has painted a rich, varied picture of contemporary practicing Muslim teens... she succeeds in demonstrating the myriad ways many teens can live how they want while keeping halal" - Booklist
"I loved reading 'She Wore Red Trainers'. It's a story that is full of heart and speaks to the universal experiences of young people trying to find their place in the world. Naima B. Robert's writing is beautiful and evocative, and I couldn't put the book down until I finished it." –Goodreads Reviewer
"'She Wore Red Trainers' is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and joys of growing up Muslim in a Western society. Naima B. Robert's novel is a powerful and moving story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it." –Writer and Book Reviewer
"She Wore Red Trainers is a remarkable novel that deftly explores the complexities of love, faith, and identity. Naima B. Robert's writing is both insightful and compassionate, and her characters are unforgettable. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience a story that will stay with them long after they finish reading it." – Dr. Fatimah Shaikh, Islamic Studies Scholar
"faith and responsibility are sensitively explored... a well written and constructed story" - School Library Association
If you're seeking a story that will transport you to another world, challenge your perspectives, and leave you with a lasting impression, this is a must-read.
When Ali first meets Amirah, he notices everything about her—her hijab, her long eyelashes and her red trainers—in the time it takes to have one look, before lowering his gaze. And, although Ali is still coming to terms with the loss of his mother and exploring his identity as a Muslim, and although Amirah has sworn never to get married, they can't stop thinking about each other.
9781847740656 - She Wore Red Trainers - Na'ima B. Robert
