The Muslims

The hilarious, upbeat voice of 9-year-old Omar introduces the reader to his life in a new school which comes complete with a resident racist bully, a situation which only shifts once the two share an unexpected adventure through the London Underground chased by (probably...) a Zombie. A zany, cleverly challenging, warm-hearted book which is scattered with Omar's own, comic-tinged guide to Muslim life in the UK. A speedy plot carried by a hugely loveable protagonist who embraces a joyful Muslim identity for himself.

This book won the 2018 Little Rebels Award. Praising the winning title, judge Patrice Lawrence said, “This is a very funny and very effective challenge to the widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in the news. More children need to get to read this book”. Judge Emily Drabble added, “If more children read The Muslims, the world could be a better place” and Darren Chetty said, “A fantastic book full of humour and eccentricity – The Muslims finds a way to explore racism and Islamophobia without allowing the characters to be defined by these things”.

'The unusual thing about this book is that Omar is not defined in any way by the bullying or racism he experiences, and despite dealing with deep themes, it's as light as a feather and hilariously funny. It's a curious mixture that somehow works perfectly because of the charm of Omar... and the ending is as warm as toast.

Non-Muslim readers will find they've unconciously learned a massive amount about the Islamic faith and culture, while Muslim readers will have a wonderful (and sadly rare) experience of reading about a family like theirs.'

- BookTrust

For 8-12 year olds

​Paperback

164 pages

13.5 x 20.5 cm