Having not read the author’s first book, Ramadan Reflections, I wasn’t sure what to expect with this non- fiction/memoir/anthology/self help/spiritual focused book. Alhumdulilah the tone is easy to read, the chapters consistent in their format, the quotes and passages sourced, the personal stories relevant, and the information often moving and inspiring. At times it did feel repetitive, but ultimately the book has staying power, and now that I have read it once cover to cover, I can see myself picking it up and reading a chapter or two at random and being again drawn in again. While nothing in the book seemed “off” I did find myself wondering though, what qualifications are needed to write a book such as this, and did not find the author’s bio satisfying in providing that information. Yes, there is a statement of praise by Mufti Menk on the cover, but similarly I don’t know if that means he “checked” and “approved” the book, or just liked the concept of it. Ultimately, I don’t know that it matters, but I do feel it is worth disclosing, since it did linger in my mind, and I would have appreciated some transparency in the matter. The 258 page book is meant for adults, but older teens will find it valuable too, even if a number of the stories are related to pregnancy. I love that this book is traditionally published in the UK, it is for Muslims by a Muslim, but the glossary at the back and the way it is written, would allow even non Muslims to be drawn to the beauty of conversing with our creator, subhanAllah.
The book is divided into four parts: Du’a of Need and Want, Before Du’a, The Du’a, After Du’a, and each of the parts has multiple chapters that explore, develop, and illuminate the concept heading. Each chapter starts with an ayat, or hadith, or quote, then gives a personal reflection of what the chapter sets out to do, and how the story about to be shared came to the author. A personal du’a story from a real person is then shared. The author then uses examples from the story, along with hadith, examples from the Qur’an, and/or guidance from scholars to build the case of the chapter’s intended goal. Often there are then action items in a pull out box of suggestions the reader can do to “Develop Your Du’a” or strengthen one’s connection. The final paragraph of the chapter is, “Allah, Transform My Du’a” where an example is given of a how to phrase your du’a.
I love that you can implement every single bit of knowledge into your du’a and your day, immediately. If you read a chapter, you have something to ponder and act on, if you read multiple chapters you have more. The implementation is easy and accessible, because of how it is presented.
Many of the stories, and the lessons from them are emotionally humbling. I often found tears on my cheeks as I saw my own vulnerability, fears, worries, and hopes expressed on the pages. And the passages that moved me today, I could see having a different effect on me if I reread them in the future. Similarly, pages I skimmed, I have no doubt could truly grip me in the future as well.
I’m glad I own the book, glad I read it, and can see me recommending it, suggesting it, and gifting copies to others. The importance of du’a and the balm it provides is something we all know, but how to go about it to make the most of it, is often something we need assistance with and can be facilitated by this book, alhumdulillah.
Islamic School Librarian 