“It’s Not About the Burqa”

Guest Post by Reem Ali

I genuinely don’t think I can recommend Mariam Khan’s It’s Not About the Burqa enough. Wow, just wow. I’m not much of a nonfiction gal, however, this was the exception. As a Muslim woman living in a western country, I’ve accepted that descriptive representation requires decades more of advocacy and activism. However, what I don’t accept is the blatant islamophobia and racism portrayed by the media that’s being fueled by white supremacists (and the like) commanding elected positions. This collection of essays not only expands upon this issue, but many others as well.

The authors are all successful women in their respective careers, breaking down stereotypes of Muslim women ingrained into western society. There have been so many cultural, moral, and systemic issues that I have pondered and struggled with, but these essays articulate and address them in such a succinct and thoughtful manner. I sincerely believe that this is a definite must-read. With the wave of people aiming to educate themselves on BLM issues, I suggest picking this up as well.

It’s Not About the Burqa by Mariam Khan. Pan Macmillan, February 2020.

Reviewer bio: Reem Ali is a third-year law student, and a born-and-raised Texan. She loves spending her free time reading, traveling (pre-coronavirus) and playing backgammon. She enjoys engaging with tough readings and sharing her perspectives. For more book reviews: @reemsreads.

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