When I was younger, there weren't a lot of Muslim fiction writers. There also were not a lot of Black Muslim fiction writers. As an avid reader, I was pleasantly surprised and intrigued to discover Umm Zakiyyah, a writer who could weave a coming-of-age and faith story expertly and beautifully while capturing the heart and foundation of Islam. As a young black Muslim, this book nurtured my Islam in a way I didn't think fiction could ever. In many ways, this book helped renew my devotion to God and my testimony of faith.

If I should speak, is about Tamika, a Christian young woman who, through unlikely events, becomes roommates with two Muslims ( Durrah and Aminah). Durrah and Aminah are on different paths in their practice of Islam, and each is motivated by different outlooks on life: Durrah is on the path of fame as a singer and is disillusioned by the practice of faith, and Aminah is inwardly seeking contentment in what she knows to be true. In living with both of them and drawn to the many pathways she learns from both, we follow Tamika as she faces challenges of faith, life, and friendships, and we are ultimately with her as she finds to learn to carve her own way in life and draws meaning for herself.

The first time I read A.Helwa's work was on her @quranquotesdaily posts, and from there, I listened to her recite some of her poems from this book on her YouTube channel. As I read posts and heard lines of poetry, I sensed so much softness and love in describing the relationship that God already has with us, and I was overjoyed to read these descriptions. The Quran and the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) manifest the love God has for us, and A. Helwa, gently and beautifully, helps us to remember to return to this very concept in every aspect of our lives. Through clear, simple language, stories of the prophets and spiritual masters, Qur'an, hadith, psychology, science, and captivating poetry, she helps all readers think about their relationship with God in a way that draws them closer to Him. It's an inspirational work that is helpful for any Muslim today but for anyone curious and wanting to learn about themselves, their purpose, and seeking comfort in this life and heaven. Join me in reading, reflecting, and discussing this beautiful work.

Awakening to faith is not a one time event, but a continuously unfolding reality, the journey of faith is not a race, but a marathon of love that each person walks at a different pace. - A Helwa.

Over the years I've written often about Imam Malcolm X. He is one of those people who God allowed his memory to live on in people's hearts, so much so that hearing about his life could infuse spiritual life into another. The greatest gift a person can give us is to help us remember our purpose in service to God and serving His creation, and Imam Malcolm X still does this from his grave because of how he lived his life.

This autobiography helps all readers reflect on their lives and redefine their mission. Imam Malcolm x story is about change. An individual's path from darkness into light, from a life of chaos and uncertainty to a life of clarity. Most of all, as a reader you witness Imam Malcolm transform from within that you can only think of God's hand in it.

When I first read Imam Malcolm X’s autobiography I felt a sense of kinship. Growing up as a young Somali, my heart desperately wanted to see Islam and black sages in the books I read. Since those early days, I have thought about the power of stories, especially stories of people trying to get to God. I learned earlier on that stories like Imam Malcolm x could empower me as a reader to know that change is possible. Reading Imam Malcolm X taught me to honor my heritage and he taught me about truly living, having purpose, honoring relationships, leadership, resiliency, and strength. Navigating life as a young black woman, I found it necessary to be exposed to such works.

Black Muslims in America have had their share of struggles. This book shows America in one of its darkest moments, of racism and disadvantage for the masses. Still, it's as much about Black and American culture and it's about an individual against all odds overcoming some of the darkest moments and finding purpose for himself and his people with God.

Join me in reading a book that remains as relevant as it was written and is still much needed in our time.