With the current racial and political climate, Tasneem Abdur-Rashid’s Odd Girl Out is a humorous, heartfelt, and timely coming of age novel tells the story of Maaryah who, after her parents divorce, finds she must give up her glamourous life in Dubai for the (dreary in comparison) UK. 

Where she must navigate the social and cultural differences of modern day Britain (which isn’t always kind to Islamic communities) and the challenges she must face as a Muslim teen (and only Hijab) at her new school. 

As a thirty-something woman I’m probably not the target audience for this novel. But, the complexity and depth that Abdur-Rashid lovingly embues in our fashionable, resilient and fiercely compelling protagonist, Maaryah, gave me an eye opening (and rather poignant) glimpse into the experiences that my Muslim friends and neighbours have had to endure their entire lives. 

I adored Maaryah and loved how resolute she was, in not giving in to the bullies (or peer pressure) to conform. By embracing her faith and culture, she highlights the issues with traditional assimilation. And why no one should have to lose their heritage and cultural identity just to ‘fit in’ to a country’s cultural norms.  

We get some really lovely, lighthearted moments too, where Maaryah’s witty sense of humour really gets to shine. 

And the writing was absolutely beautiful as well, capturing the voice of contemporary teens in an authentic and engaging way that I feel will resonate with a lot of readers. Especially when it comes to anyone currently struggling with their identity or embracing their cultural heritage. 

The themes and issues (such as divorce, family relationships, friendship and Islamophobia) were all highly relevant and important too. Challenging the misconceptions (and biases) that many people have about the Islamic community (and Muslim identity as a whole) which is why I think everyone should go pick up a copy ASAP. 

I also encourage you to check out reviews from Muslim readers, who are definitely gonna be far more qualified at explaining just how amazing (and important) a book this really is. 

Also, a huge thank you David Fickling Books for the incredible proof.