I recently read a post by Deenplusbook which inspired me to create a list of Islamic books to read this year. As an avid reader of fiction and non-fiction books, it dawned on me at the end of last year, that I had only read a few Islamic books in comparison with other books. Below is a list comprising of five books that I intend to read in 2018.

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Who is Allah? His Names and Attributes and Their Significance to the Individual by Umm Abdurrahman Sakina

What’s the book about? 

Who is Allah is a book that delves into the meaning of Allah’s names and attributes; as well as the practical application of this knowledge in a person’s daily life. It also provides the reader with insight on how to develop a close and rewarding relationship with Allah and useful supplications from the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him.

Why did you choose it? 

I started learning about Allah’s names towards the end of last year and it had a huge impact on my spirituality and worship. I chose this book because I want to expand on that knowledge and “Who is Allah?” gives more insight than you would find in other books on the same subject.

Healing Body and Soul by Amira Ayad

What’s the book about? 

Healing Body and Soul is a book about how we can combine the rich tradition of Islamic teaching with beneficial contemporary scientific knowledge in order to lead a holistically healthy and happy life. The book explores topics such as diet and nutrition, stress management, detoxification, neurolinguistic programming, exercise and physical therapy, lifestyle changes and the power of prayer.

Why did you choose it? 

I wasn’t physically active for a long period of time, but in the last quarter of 2017, I started making changes to my diet (cutting out sugar) and exercising more. As a result, there was a huge difference in my health. I want to experiment further and implement new habits hence why I chose this book.

In The Early Hours: Reflections on Spiritual and Self-Development by Khurram Murad

What’s the book about? 

How are we to become true believers who seek God’s good pleasure? How are we to become mindful of God, to be thankful or worshipful? This inspirational book of wise advice answers these questions and guides us toward the spiritual life.

Why did you choose it? 

I read this book whilst I was involved with the Islamic society at university and absolutely loved it! The writing style and content are accessible and I benefitted significantly the first time. This year I’m going to revisit it with fresh eyes and In sha Allah gain some new knowledge.

Daily Wisdom: Selection from the Qur’an by Abdur Raheem Kidwai

What’s the book about? 

This beautiful presentation of a selection from the Holy Qur’an engages the reader in a moment of daily reflection. Edited for ease of comprehension, English-speaking readers will find this compilation both spiritually enriching and easy to understand. With 365 verses covering the whole year, this is a must for every home.

Why did you choose it? 

My cousin recommended this book and I chose it because daily qur’anic reflection is one of my goals for this year. The book makes that process easier since it already contains a selection of ayahs spanning the entire year.

The True Secret by Amira Ayad

What’s the book about? 

Happiness, peace of mind and good health are things all human beings desire. But how do we attain them? The True Secret is a book that offers practical, step by step suggestions that anyone can use to evaluate their present situation and begin to make changes in working for success in this life and the next.

Why did you choose it? 

I read the first chapter of this book on my phone in December and after finishing it, not only did I send it to all my friends, I knew I had to get a paperback version! This is the kind of book that you engage with and refer to again and again. As someone who reads quite a few productivity and self-help books, it’s refreshing to find a book that focuses on success from an all-encompassing Islamic perspective. It’s an accessible book for everyone and it’s filled with practical tips.

That’s it! Five Islamic Books that I want to read in 2018. Be sure to share yours with us on social media.