This year has been the year for Muslim women writing, illustrating and publishing their own books, from books for women, children and wider society. This month we see the release of ‘Basirah the Basketballer says Insha Allah’ written by Hafsah Dabiri and illustrated by Alina Shabelnyk. The cover sees a young Muslim girl in a hijab showing us her skills with a basketball with the number seven on her top. We’ve yet to get a sneak peak inside and look forward to the events in 2019. Hafsah Dabiri is a student, presenter and researcher. She studies politics and international relations in London and has led national campaigns.

Hafsah comments on her Instagram:

“I’ve written a children’s book! The aim is to inspire little Muslim girls of colour not only to be sporty but to not be scared of the ups and downs of life! The book is available only for the next 24 hours for pre-order! Check out @ruqayas.bookshelf for the details!! The book is here to uplift and show our little girls that they are represented and their dreams of being active are possible! Make sure you get your copy now! There will be launch events all over the UK in the new year so watch out for the details insha’allah”

Nice one ukhtii! With all the crazy sterotypes n prejudice in today's world……this book embodies hope for the Muslim youth😇✌

— Habeebah Atta (@Beebi26) December 15, 2018

Cannot wait to get this for my daughter & niece! What a fantastic way of empowering and promoting an active & healthy lifestyle in young #Muslim girls @HafsahDabiri @AamnahRahman @OnnaJuJitsuClub https://t.co/008z5lhCo0

— @SoniaFayyaz (@SoniaFayyaz) December 15, 2018

This is amazing Allahuma barik 🙌🏽 https://t.co/iAE5WhACBl

— RK 🌟 (@khatxxr) December 20, 2018

So my sister has written a Children’s book and honestly I’m so proud of this girl! She just keeps levelling up 👏🏾
This book is needed and will definitely impact our precious children in the best of ways! ❤️

May Allah reward you love @HafsahDabiri https://t.co/xvOwuP567S

— guessitsTheSABEffect (@SimplyAnike) December 20, 2018

I want your book here in the USA <3 https://t.co/EKfpR6YS1v

— Yasmine (@WokaLoka95) December 17, 2018