Just Like Ammi: Short Stories by Jawaad Khan

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Just Like Ammi: Short Stories by Jawaad Khan

This 93 page collection of 20 short stories is clever and heartfelt as the voice of each piece feels unique in its presentation of something rooted in Islamic culture without any explanation or apology. I appreciated that this book is by a Muslim for Muslims, and the humor didn’t rely on any harsh criticism or judgement to evoke the desired effect. From game show formats to reflective pieces, retellings and even a spotlight on ‘The World’s Best Quranic English Reader,'” my personal favorites are “Istikhara Khala,” “InshaAllah is Now Illegal,” “30 Days Hath Shawwal,” and “How the 28th Night of Ramadan Must Feel.” Undoubtedly anytime a book is comprised of a collection of individual stories, even when by a single author, some will resonate more than others, and some I feel tried a little too hard, but even if you don’t giggle at every story, there is something for everyone.  I’d say this work bests for teens and up, there is nothing haram if younger kids want to read.  Possible flag would only be that Halloween is mentioned, but not clear if the Muslim character is participating in dressing up, or if due to her Spiderman mask hijab, the day is easier for her to blend in on at school. I’m also unsure how to feel about the fortune cookie framing of the final piece, they aren’t really “fortunes,” just formatted in that way with tongue and check Islamic leaning advice.

 

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