Enter the Rafflecopter below to win a signed copy of MUSLIM GIRLS RISE.
By Saira Mir
The term “book birthday” was new to me as a debut author, but it perfectly captures the emotions and effort that went into bringing a book to life.
An advance reading at the annual Islamic Society of North America conference.
Three years ago, my little Muslim girl was venturing off to kindergarten and I worried about her self image. I decided that instead of worrying, I would build her confidence. I shared stories of my personal role models — authors, scientists, activists and athletes. My daughter was captivated by their stories. The idea for MUSLIM GIRLS RISE was born.
I invested months into research, compilation, fact-checking, and outreach. I was honoring my personal heroes and the writing process felt fluid.
Relishing my first copy of MUSLIM GIRLS RISE.
Finding an agent was not so fluid. It was my first taste of rejection. Of the agents who responded to my query, they didn’t understand the concept or why the topic was important. I pressed on. Within a month I found my dream agent, Saba Sulaiman at Talcott Notch. She shared my vision, fell in love with the manuscript and believed in its need. I was floored.
Saba helped polish the manuscript and tackle a proposal. Writing a proposal felt more intense than the writing the actual book. Providing evidence as to why a book that is so personal to you should exist is heavy. With data supporting gender bias developing early as kindergarten and increasing Islamophobia, we were prepared to present MUSLIM GIRLS RISE to publishers. Within weeks, which felt like an eternity, I received two offers. This was the marvelous moment where hard work and dreams intersected.
We found the perfect home for MUSLIM GIRLS RISE at Salaam Reads, an imprint of Simon and Schuster. My editor, Zareen Jaffery, had a razor sharp eye for what my manuscript lacked. Admittedly I worried about whether my vision for the illustrations would come to be. A year later, I saw Aaliya Jaleel’s work and my worries melted away. Her art was a perfect, singing accompaniment to the text.
Bookmarks featuring illustrations from MGR.
Three years, many sleepless nights, endless doubts and hopes, dreams and prayers, and MUSLIM GIRLS RISE is finally here. Like the birth of my children, this book carries with it the hopes that its presence will make the world a better place.
It takes a village to reach a book birthday. I’d like to thank my village of amazingly supportive debut authors, the Soaring ’20s. Your talent is matched by your passionate support. I am so grateful.
To further honor this book birthday, I’m giving away 5 signed copies of MUSLIM GIRLS RISE. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Entries will close 11:59 PM PST on November 3. Five winners will be chosen randomly and announced here and on social media on November 4.
Book Details
MUSLIM GIRLS RISE: Inspirational Champions of Our Time
by Saira Mir, Illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel
Pub Date: Oct. 29th, 2019
ISBN: 978-1-5344-1888-2
Publisher: Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster
“Not to be missed.” —Kirkus ⭐STARRED REVIEW⭐
Saira Mir is a Muslim physician, mother and author. She loves teaching and learning at the hospital and at home. She spends most of her free time at the library or playground with her children. Her debut children's book MUSLIM GIRLS RISE was born from her daughter’s desire for relatable Muslim role models. She lives in the DC metro area.
Follow author Saira Mir:
Website: www.Sairamir.com
Instagram: @sairamirbooks
Simon and Schuster
Indie Bound
Goodreads
Follow illustrator Aaliya Jaleel:
Website: www.aaliyamj.com
Twitter: @aaliyamj
Instagram: @aaliyamj