Here in the U.K., summer is now in full swing - the birds are singing as sweetly as ever, butterflies paint a beautiful mosiac as they flutter from flower to flower and of course, many choose summer to be the time to bare all'.
And while most people strip in an attempt to keep cool, the international media is hot with the topic of Muslim women who wear the burka. Newspapers, radio shows and television programs are busy debating about the way some Muslim women's choice of dress, and in this issue of Islamic Ink, I've chosen to celebrate the achievements of my fellow Muslim writers.
This issue is celebratory for the reason that two very talented Muslimah writers have had new books published, one being Umm Juwayriyah, who remained determined through 4 years of constant obstables to finally have her novel published; and the other being Jamilah Kolocotronis, who saw through the publishing of her wonderful 5-part Echoes series.
Despite the world debating about the burka, I celebrate the publishing of two hot new books, and once again share with you talents from other Islamic Writers Alliance members. Will you celebrate with me?
Was-salaamu 'alaikum,
Umm Junayd Editor-in-Chief, Islamic Ink
IWA Headlines
ISNA Convention Participation Sister Safiyyah, IWA Director, along with other IWA members will be manning IWA's booth at the ISNA Convention to be held in Washington, D.C. on July 3-6, 2009.
New Books Published
Muslim Writers Publishing (MWP), publisher, Linda D. Delgado is pleased to announce the publishing in June 2009 of two new Islamic Fiction novels:
Silence is the 5th novel in the outstanding Echoes series authored by Sister Jamilah Kolocotronis. This is the final book in this series. This spectacular new Islamic Fiction novel is 444 pages in length and has a list price of $17.95. The book is released for sale and will soon be ready for purchase at IslamicBookstore.com at www.IslamicBookstore.com; and from online secular book stores Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.
The Size of a Mustard Seed is a new Islamic Fiction novel written in a new IF genre: Urban Islamic Fiction,. This exciting new book is authored by a new and up and coming Muslim writer, Umm Juwayriyah, who is also a well-known poet. The book is 342 pages in length and lists at $14.95. The Size of a Mustard Seed was just published June 26th and will be released for commercial sales sometime the first week of July 2009. MWP expects to have this new book available at IslamicBookstore.com at www.IslamicBookstore.com; and from online secular book stores Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com. by mid-July.
Teacher Study Guide Published
Sis Saba Negash is the author-educator of a new teacher study guide (TSG) based on the Islamic fiction novel, Muslim Teens in Pitfalls and Pranks authored by Sister Maryam Mahmoodian. The TSG is the 6th teacher study guide published by Muslim Writers Publishing (MWP); it is in PDF ebook format and is printable. Copies of the print book are available at Muslim retail stores and secular online stores. This is the 3rd TSG created by sister Saba Negash for MWP.
In Time for Ramadan The third book from the Islamic Motivational Book Series, 'Life Open Secret' is now available in bookstores throughout Malaysia and online. This third book is entitled 'Life is an Open Secret- Ramadan Special' and specifically focuses on 25 stories for the month of Ramadan.
Sis Zabrina also announced that the 'Life Open Secret' book series has been offered to be translated into the Polish language by the Malaysian Embassy in Poland. Initial agreement content is currently under discussion.
Master of the Jinn in Croatia Master of the Jinn: A Sufi Novel has now been translated and published in Croatia. Here is a link to the publisher's page.
New Children's Book Published IWA member, J. Samia Mair, is the author of a beautiful new children's book published by Kube Publishing (UK). Amira's Totally Chocolate World is available in the UK and can be found on the publisher's website: http://www.kubepublishing.com
IWA Anthologies The two anthologies: Many Poetic Voices, One Faith and Many Voices, One Faith II - Islamic Fiction Stories will be a direct result initially from the poetry and fiction contests, as well as more non-contest submissions to be included from IWA members, are in a growing progressive state, with the goal of publishing before the completion of 2009, inshaAllah. Our deepest thanks to all who participated in the contests and later submission requests, with congratulations to all who have been promised publishing in either or both of the anthologies.
New IWA Web Admin
Umm Junayd is the current Editor-in-Chief of Islamic Ink, and after successfully applying and receiving unanimous vote from the IWA Board Members in approval of her application, she is also now the IWA Web Admin.
Spotlight IWA
This issue's feature interview is with IWA member, Jamilah Kolocotronis, author of the popular 'Echoes Series'.
St. Louis, Missouri is the home town for Jamilah Kolocotronis, who grew up as Linda, the daughter of a second-generation Greek man and a woman of German heritage. Linda has always loved books. Her mother read to her often when she was little, and as she grew, she discovered the magic of writing as well.
This is your chance to learn about some members of IWA, and in this issue we have...
J. Samia Mair
J. Samia Mair is a freelance writer with publications in magazines, books, and scientific journals. She is a columnist for SISTERS magazine ("Tea Talk") and examiner.com as the Baltimore Muslim Examiner.
She is also the author of a children's picture book, Amira's Totally Chocolate World, which was just released by Islamic Foundation, and a second picture book, The Perfect Gift, is expected to be released shortly. She is currently working on several writing projects, including a chapter book, a historical novel, and educational materials for Muslim children. She is a member of the Islamic Writers Alliance, Muslimah Writers Alliance, and National Writers Union.
Karen English
Karen English was born in Vallejo, California in 1947. She grew up in Los Angeles, California with her mother, step-father, brother and sister. She received her B.A. in Psychology from California State University at Los Angeles as well as a teaching credential. Until recently, she taught second grade. She is the mother of four grown children and grandmother of one. She feels blessed to be a writer and has authored 13 books. Karen says that writing makes life so much more interesting because she sees a story in almost everything. She currently lives in Los Angeles.
Awards
Coretta Scott King Honor Award for FRANCIE
BABRA Award for FRANCIE
Parent Choice for FRANCIE
Judy Lopez Award for FRANCIE
Jane Addams Award for HOT DAY ON ABBOTT AVENUE
Dr. Laurence B. Brown
A graduate of Cornell University, Brown University Medical School, and George Washington University Hospital Ophthalmology Residency, Laurence B. Brown is an ophthalmic surgeon, specialized in cataract and refractive surgery. A retired Air Force officer, he moved to Saudi Arabia ten years ago to become the medical director of a major eye center in the holy city of Medina. Since then, he has authored the series of articles and books featured on his two websites, www.EighthScroll.com and www.LevelTruth.com. North Carolina State Senator Larry Shaw described the first book in his series, The Eighth Scroll, as: "Indiana Jones meets The Da Vinci Code. The Eighth Scroll is a breath-holding, white-knuckled, can't-put-down thriller that challenges Western views of humanity, history and religion. Bar none, the best book in its class!" Dr. Brown's other books include the theological tsunamis, MisGod'ed (Subtitled: A Roadmap of Guidance and Misguidance within the Abrahamic Religions) and God'ed (A Case for Islam as the Completion of Revelation), and the Islamic primer, Bearing True Witness (or, Now that I've Found Islam, What do I do with it?).
In addition to the above websites, his articles and book excerpts are featured on www.IslamReligion.com. All books are available through www.Amazon.com and special order through book stores everywhere. Dr. Brown has been featured on numerous radio and television talk shows, and is presently working on his next action/adventure novel, The Zion Conspiracy, which addresses the evils of Zionism.
The Tip Off
The IWA has a wealth of members with inside knowledge about the writing and publishing business, and The Tip Off is where you'll get exclusive writing and publishing advice.
In this issue, Umm Junayd asks questions to help writers pave their path, and Linda D. Delgado shares some of the latest book trends out there.
In this issue we Debora McNichol reviews an exciting 'to be released' novel, 'The Size of a Mustard Seed', by Umm Juwayriyah
The Size of a Mustard Seed is the latest work by Umm Juwayriyah (Umm J), our favorite urban Muslimah poetess. Umm J, aka Maryam Sullivan, has leapt out of poetry with a bang, tackling American urban chick-lit with an elegant and simple plot and charming characters.
The Reflections section is the hub for non-fiction pieces and essays. In this issue Umm Junayd illustrates the importance of positive thinking.
"I'm too lazy to lose weight," "I'm not clever enough to teach my kids", "I'm too fat to wear that dress…" Have you heard yourself saying similar statements before? Maybe you've heard someone talking in such a way? These are explosive assertions that are most common on the tongues of women, and the question remains: why do we put ourselves down?
In this issue, I define short fiction by presenting some... yes, you guessed it: short fiction!
First up is Camilla Sayf's, And then one day I surprise her, a clever ensemble of fiction and haiku, and Tahira Abdul-Jalil's flash fiction piece, A Ramadan Story.
Whether it's free-verse or sonnets, I am a lover of poetry and prose. In this issue, 'Why Are We Here' by Hezreen Abdul Rashid and 'A Convert's Lossr' by J. Samia Mair can be found.
InkSpots Islamic Ink's Spot to highlight IWA members' publications.
The Runaway Scarf by Corey Habbas
ISBN: 978-0-979-3577-4-9
$14.95
An African slave, oppressed by the non-Muslim Arabs in Makkah, finds compassion and freedom once she escapes to the first Muslim community established by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the city of Madinah. Inspired by authentic Islamic hadith, this story communicates the spirit of human justice and equality valued in the Islamic tradition. Beautiful color illustrations accompany this Islamic fiction story.
In the heart of Grey Street in Central Durban stands a dilapidated old building called AK Mansions. Since 1902 when the first batch of tenants moved in, and up until today, the building exudes a communal atmosphere. Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, the tenants of AK Mansions are never short of excitement, drama or pain. Everyone knows everybody and their stories.
Jannah, a young adventurous girl, is
enjoying her weekend until she has
to go to the place she dreads the
most - the library. Jannah has her
mind made up that she will hate the
entire trip until she meets a few
characters that change her mind.
Jannah's story will spark an interest
in reading in your child, grandchild,
student or any special young person
in your life.
Life is an Open Secret - Think About It By Zabrina A. Bakar
ISBN: 9789834353803
$10.50
Sis Zabrina, with her unique storytelling style presents 18 stories that linger around the issues of changing oneself today to be better than yesterday and how to face life challenges with optimism and positive mind. Themes of the stories are Love Your Mother, Rising Early, Decide Your Path Wisely, Face Challenges with Zest, Find Your Passion,What Goes Around Comes Around and Manage Your Time among many others.
Between Love, Hope & Fear is an extraordinary anthology overflowing with heart-wrenching poetry, short stories and essays. In the words of Rukhsana Hussain, from London, Between Love, Hope & Fear 'touches on Islamic ideals without being instructional' - a book that shows you what you need to achieve success, not just telling you.
Islamic Writers Alliance PO Box 299 Sunbury, PA 17801 USA
Write to the Editor!
What did you think of this issue of Islamic Ink? You are the one who can help shape the magazine, so I'd love to hear your thoughts! Write to me at: magazine@islamicwritersalliance.net
~ Umm Junayd
Spotlight IWA
Jamilah Kolocotronis
St. Louis, Missouri is the home town for Jamilah Kolocotronis, who grew up as Linda, the daughter of a second-generation Greek man and a woman of German heritage.
Linda has always loved books. Her mother read to her often when she was little, and as she grew, she discovered the magic of writing as well. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Human Services. Soon after his graduation, Jamilah's husband began his career in Islamic education, and as their children grew, she worked with him, teaching social studies at Islamic schools. Over the years they had six sons (and no daughters), and now live in Lexington, Kentucky, where Jamilah's husband is the principal of an Islamic school and Jamilah stays home and writes.
In this issue she is being interviewed by Umm Junayd.
Umm Junayd (U.J): Assalaamu 'alaikum Jamilah.
Jamilah Kolocotronis (J.K): Wa 'alaikum salaam.
U.J: I understand that you are a writer of Islamic fiction, and have authored several books. Tell us a little more about your work.
J.K: My first novel, Innocent People, was written in reaction to the Islamophobia following 9/11. This book portrays an American Muslim woman, her Southeast Asian husband and their five sons, and shows how they and their friends cope with the stress in the year following 9/11. Great emphasis is placed on the innocence of many, from all sides.
Echoes is the first book of the Echoes Series. The main character, Joshua Adams, is 23 years old and, by all accounts, a loser. After his wife throws him out, he turns to some Muslim guys he knows from a job he once held. They take him in and give him the space he needs to work through his demons. Eventually, they teach him about Islam. After his conversion, Joshua looks forward to a new live but the echoes of his past continue to haunt him.
In Rebounding, Joshua is eleven years older and has settled down with his new wife and children. His faith is strong and his life is good until the day he is falsely arrested on charges of terrorism. Throughout the ordeal, including time
in a federal prison, Joshua holds onto his faith in order to survive.
At the beginning of Turbulence, tragedy strikes the family. Joshua and his second brother, Chris, depend on their faith to help them but the oldest brother, Brad, feels helpless and alone. He descends into a world of nightmares until his own survival is in question. On the way to self-destruction, Brad's journey becomes an odyssey as he searches for answers.
Ripples tells the story of the next generation: Brad's son, Kyle; Chris's son, Isaiah, and Joshua's daughter (by his first marriage) Jennifer. The three cousins, who are close in age, have always been good friends. As they approach adulthood, each faces a special challenge.
Silence, the last book in the Echoes Series (which has just been published), tells the story of Luqman, who is 24 and ready to change the world. His father, Joshua, works quietly as a community organizer, helping the poor and the homeless. As Luqman spirals out of control Joshua helplessly stands by, not understanding Luqman's fervor and not knowing how to stop him. The finale of the Echoes Series erupts into chaos and, then, Silence.
U.J: When did you first consider yourself a writer? Was it a light bulb moment, or something that had been brewing for a long time?
J.K: For me it has been a process. When I was in fourth grade, our teacher told us to bring a poem to put into
an anthology. I decided to write my own. My teacher and others raved over it. That's the first time I remember wanting to be a writer. When I was fourteen I earned $100 from my first job as a summer counsellor. From that, I spent $25 on my first typewriter. Every night I stayed up late, typing away. Throughout high school I wrote poems, short stories, and plays. I even wrote a novel. Most of my early work has never seen the light of day, and what I did dare to send out was rejected.
In college and after I wrote non-fiction works, including my doctoral dissertation, papers to deliver at conferences, and curriculum. I wanted to write fiction, but between teaching and raising kids there was never enough time. Soon after 9/11 I realized that life is too short. The following May I retired from teaching and in September, when
my kids had gone back to school, I made myself sit down for at least two hours each day and write.
U.J: Do you write works in any other genre apart from fiction?
J.K: I've dabbled with poetry, but it's not my strength. My first published book was the non-fiction work, Islamic Jihad. I have at least three ideas for future non-fiction books. Right now I'm not sure how soon I'll tackle those projects. I have written the opening page for one of these books.
U.J: Writers sometimes say that they learn from their writing, and that it is only through reading that one becomes a better writer. Would you say that this is true for yourself?
J.K: I've always been a voracious reader. When I was little my mother didn't drive and our family could afford only one car. She regularly walked with my sisters and me to the local library, which was at least a mile from our house. My childhood was full of books. When I decided to write full-time, back in 2002, I checked out popular books from the library to read not only for enjoyment but also to learn contemporary styles. In the beginning I was careful not to read while I was writing because I didn't want to accidentally copy another author's style. I think I've learned more from reading the works of others than I could learn from books or even conferences about writing.
I still go to the library at least once a week and I also buy books when I can.
U.J: What kind of books do you tend to read, and why?
J.K: I read mostly fiction, though I'm always on the lookout for an interesting non-fiction book. My tastes range from suspense to chick-lit, depending on the author and the story. There are some well-known authors I read, such as Jodi Picoult and Dean Koontz, but I really enjoy walking past the library shelves and seeking out little-known gems. I look for an interesting main character, a nice plot twist, and a writing style that doesn't make me feel like grabbing a red pen.
U.J: When writing your books, what has been your number one aim to gain from them?
J.K: When I decided to sit down and write, back in 2002, I also made the intention that everything I wrote would promote Islam.
U.J: How important have readers been in shaping your Echoes series? Have they provided ideas or comments that you have taken on board?
J.K: The most important reader contribution was in creating the series. I intended to write only Echoes, but readers began asking me, "What comes next?" I imagined a future life for Joshua and the other characters,
and went from there. When Rebounding was finished I asked my son to recommend a continuance, based on the final pages of that book. While Iwas writing Turbulence I decided to end the series at five books.
The prevalence of Jennifer's character in Ripples was also encouraged by readers who told me they'd like to see more of her. Recently I made a decision based on what I thought my readers would say. My son suggested that I kill off a major character. I wrote four different drafts of the book, each including the death. The plots worked, but
something didn't feel right. I considered how my readers would feel about this development and decided to let the character live.
U.J: If you could go back and re-write any of your books, which would it be, and why?
J.K: Turbulence is a personal favourite of mine, but it hasn't been well-received by most of my Muslim readers. Some day I may go back and figure out what I need to do to make the story more engaging. On the other hand, non-Muslim readers have said this is their favourite book.
I've also thought of rewriting my first novel, Innocent People. Because it was my first, I made many mistakes. In general, though, that book has been well-received.
U.J: Who are the intended readers of your books, and how have you managed to reach out to them with your work?
J.K: When I started writing, my ideal reader was male, 18 to 25 years old. I based this on my experience as the mother of sons. For years I've been frustrated that my boys didn't have anything Islamic to read after Invincible Abdullah.
My readers surprised me, though. They are mostly female and range in age from 14 to 70-plus. Some men have read my books, including my husband, but they are far outnumbered. Only one of my sons, my 15-year old, has read all of my books so far. I also wanted to write material that would be meaningful to both Muslims and non-Muslims. I'm careful to explain those rituals that Muslims take for granted. At the same time, most of my main characters are strong Muslims. I've received very positive feedback from non-Muslim readers (including, of course, my mother). In fact, I just received a nice note from an older non-Muslim woman who was introduced to my books through my niece. She has read the earlier books in the series and is anxious to read Ripples.
U.J: What has been the turning point in your writing career, and what would you say is the greatest hurdle you have had to jump?
J.K: My greatest hurdle is marketing. Readers won't pick up my books if they don't know about them or aren't convinced of their merit. I'm not a natural salesperson and have a hard time thinking of new ways to promote my books. Approaching people is even harder for me. I belong to an online group called The Shy Writer, started by Hope Clark who has a book by that name. We don't post often. I suppose we're not very social. I must add that I was also surprised by the reluctance of some Muslims to embrace Islamic fiction. When I taught social studies I yearned to find books to help my Islamic school students relate to the world. Not everyone sees the value in this genre.
The major turning point in my career, I think, is yet to come. Now that I've written the last book of the Echoes Series, I'm planning to get a literary agent to help me with my next book. I've already started on this novel, but it's too early to give any details.
U.J: What has been the response to your books from readers and the larger Muslim community?
J.K: My readers send me encouraging messages about my books. I'm always happy to hear from them, whether the feedback is positive or negative, but I'm especially glad when they enjoy my work. One of the most touching messages was one I received from a 14-year old girl who said Echoes helped her in her Islamic identity. I'm also excited when a reader anxiously asks about the next book in the series.
The response from the larger Muslim community has been mostly positive. For two years in a row I was invited to be part of the Meet the Author program at the ISNA Convention. Articles about my books have appeared in Azizah, Islamic Horizons, and Al-Jumuah magazines. Teachers and principals are becoming increasingly interested in placing my books in their school libraries.
For some Muslims, though, Islamic fiction is still something strange and not quite acceptable. Attitudes are slowly changing and I'm very glad for this. Even if the parents don't quickly embrace Islamic fiction, their children often do.
U.J: For those who are interested in your work, where can they find out more about you, and purchase your book?
J.K: I would like to invite everyone to check out my website at www.jamilahkolocotronis.com. From there you will also find links to my blogs.
My books can be purchased through via the Publisher's website: www.MuslimWritersPublishing.com, and also from Islamicbookstore.com and Halalco. Barnes & Noble (online) also carries my books, as does Amazon. Anyone who wants a signed copy is welcome to place an order through my email (echoes_series@yahoo.com) or my website. And, of course, they can always buy my books through An-Najm Publishers.
Umm Junayd is the Director of An-Najm Publishers - the UK's first Muslim retailer to specialize in Islamic fiction - and is a regular columnist for SISTERS magazine.
Don't you hate it when you're buzzing - full of ideas, emotions, thoughts and plots; you've got a blast of excitement and energy, and you pick up your pen, or reach for your keyboard to write… but you can't.
Don't you just hate that?
You want to write. In fact, you must write; you know you have to, but that first line simply won't flow. The frustrations of a writer!
You can't stare at that notepad all day, and you haven't got the luxury of time to blink blankly at a computer screen, so you can do one of two things.
1.Get a large pillow and scream into it at the top of your lungs
2.Ask yourself why you want to write in the first place
Solution 1 may make you feel a lot better, but it probably won't solve your problem, but solution 2 can help a whole leap.
You see, us writers have internal nigglings that cause us to put pen to paper and fingers to keyboards, and many of us work on 'bursts of inspiration'. We have an innate love for the written word and marvel at how sentences are structured and literary images are painted. It's not something that is learnt, however, while we know we want to write and are zealous about the art, most of us have no real purpose behind it except to simply write.
That can keep some of us going for a year or two - just seeing where the pen flows and whose eyes will fall on our work - but this cannot be maintained for long, and thus we fall into the scenario above.
As a resolution, ask yourself:
·Why do I want to write?
·Who do I want to write for?
·What mediums and genre are my strength?
·How will I know when I've reached a point of satisfaction?
Each question is pretty straightforward, and writing their answers on a sheet of paper can be therapeutic because you'll have a clear vision set ahead of you, and you'll know exactly the path you wish to pave to head towards it.
Umm Junayd is the Director of An-Najm Publishers - the UK's first Muslim retailer to specialize in Islamic fiction - and is a regular columnist for SISTERS magazine.
Book Trends & Other Advice by Linda D. Delgado
Ebooks
-- It is interesting to note that Amazon.com has decided that the price point for ebooks is $9.95. This may work for many books, but certainly not all... but that is the figure Amazon.com has decided on for selling ebooks. This price point is not realistic for non-fiction text books having much higher list prices, say many publishers.
-- Ever wonder where libraries obtain bundled ebooks? Many libraries subscribe to ebrary and for technical ebooks they subscribe to Safari.
-- eBook Reader Comparison Fact: Kindle store has 270 thousand titles, which cost less than Sony, but Sony's software allows access to 500,000 free public-domain titles" that Google Books has digitized. The Sony reader is only for reading books while Kindle has the added feature of reading them to you.
Printing - In the News
-- Booksurge, a division of Amazon.com, that provides print on demand printing services is discontinuing lay-flat comb binding which is commonly used in many cookbook and younger children's color illustrated books.
Marketing and Promotion - In the News
"For the first time in its history, America's biggest publishing event has dedicated its efforts to promoting Arab literature. Book Expo America (BEA) 2009, held in New York City, featured more than 600 representatives from the Muslim world, and also introduced more than 300 Arab-language children's books to the North American market." Junaid Abbas Bhatti, Director of PR and Marketing, 1001 Inventions Limited
Writing - Formatting Manuscripts
"When guidelines are not given, publishers expect Times New Roman or Courier font, size 12, double spaced, one inch margins all around. They expect to see a manuscript free of typos (one or two in a short story are usually ok since neither spell-checker nor the author can catch everything, and obviously, on purpose typos, say to show a person's accent, are a different matter altogether.) They expect you to list the word count. There is controversy over MS Word's word count feature. For an alternative, there are explicit directions on the www.swfa.com website. Fancy fonts, large font size and large margins or small font size and small margins are all considered unprofessional. For print submissions, or even e-submissions made as an attachment, it is a good idea to include at the top right hand corner of each page the author's name, title, and page number. This prevents pages from being lost, getting into the wrong manuscript, or being read out of order."
- Pamela K. Taylor
Book Reviews - Secular Resource
Fearless Reviews promoted the best work of the independent press from 1998 to 2006 and then went out of business. The owner recently announced he is reviving the "Reviews" with a new low-cost Sponsorship advertising program designed to sustain it financially. The official launch date is October 1, 2009. For information about how Sponsorships work and how to submit books for review, see www.fearlessbooks.com/ReviewSponsorInfo.htm
Copyright - Q & A
Question: Are performances copyrighted, or is it the record of the performances that is protected?
Answer: The performance is the creative act that is protected. If someone attends a concert and records it, that is called a bootleg recording. The performer can assign rights to a record company just as an author can assign rights to a book publisher. It is the performance itself that is the subject of the copyright, not the recording of the performance.
Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer so it is always good to check with an Intellectual Property (IP) lawyer if you need help with copyright issues.
Google Update
I received another "Notice" from Google's representative. It appears Google scanned/copied some of my work…but that is taken care of as I readily chose to Opt Out!
Key Deadlines Extended
The federal court overseeing the Settlement has extended the deadline for opting out of the Settlement. The new date is September 4, 2009. If you are a member of the Settlement Class and do not opt out by that date, you will remain in the Settlement. September 4 is also the new date for filing any objections to the Settlement. The date of the final Fairness Hearing on the Settlement, at which the court will consider whether to grant final approval, has also been rescheduled, from June 11, 2009 to October 7, 2009. All other deadlines and key dates in the case remain the same, including May 5, 2009 as the date on or before which a book must have been scanned in order to be entitled to a Cash Payment (cash payment only if you don't Opt Out).
Title: The Size of a Mustard Seed Author: Umm Juwayriyah Publisher: Muslim Writers Publishing
The Size of a Mustard Seed is the latest work by Umm Juwayriyah (Umm J), our favorite urban Muslimah poetess. Umm J, aka Maryam Sullivan, has leapt out of poetry with a bang, tackling American urban chick-lit with an elegant and simple plot and charming characters.
The story revolves around the Muslimahs at Covered Pearls, a successful Muslimah-owned beauty salon in an urban center of a New England town. Enjoying the success are three hard-working Muslimahs who toil through Ramadan, supporting each other and their clients, enjoying the closeness that only Muslim sisters share.
Mustard Seed's protagonist is the wonderfully imperfect Jameelah, a self-confessed grouch, distressed by America's reaction to 9-11, yet determined to improve herself and her attitude for Allah's sake during Ramadan. Jameelah is a stylist at Covered Pearls, a college student, devoted daughter and sister. She is twenty-seven and unmarried, to the horror and amusement of the Muslim community, and has ducked engagement to the handsome imam from Connecticut for a year. It's not that Jameelah doesn't want to get married; she's just not sure the good imam is the one. The monkey on Jameelah's back throughout Mustard Seed, and the topic of conversation in the community, is her inability to commit to this good brother, who by all accounts is the catch of New England.
Ironically perhaps, among Jameelah's many talents is her ability to give common sensible, logical, Islamically sound advice to the sisters at Covered Pearls. She's the go-to girl for her siblings because she's faithful, smart, and loving. Somehow, though, she feels her own life is in shambles, and that's why it's so easy to relate to Jameelah. Her barriers, like our own, are largely self-erected. How often does Allah keep us from resolving our own problems until we're good and ready to tackle them?
Mustard Seed has more than its share of overachievers. The book's characters, while loveable, good-natured, and human, are uber-successful in most endeavors—education, relationships, business, Islamic knowledge. The abundance of overachievers in this Muslim community, some might say, makes the story a little too good to be true. On the other hand, Mustard Seed's character set is probably closer to a typical American Muslim community than not, and demonstrates what Muslims are capable of, given faith, hard work, knowledge, the right attitude, and opportunity, all of which may be had in the United States, insha Allah.
Then again, maybe Umm J's characters are all on their best behavior because it's Ramadan.
Umm J touches on many topics especially relevant to American Muslims: 9-11, Ramadan, masjid management, marriages arranged and self-chosen, young and old, monogamous and polygynous. Relationships are explored: marriages, friendships, Jameelah's uneasy adoration of her mother, and her protected and protective rank in the family. Umm J weaves so many things relevant to Muslims into her story: charity, fasting, prayer, kindness, and reversion. Cultures and personalities conflict in the melting pot that is Muslim America, and the author deals with these clashes sweetly and gracefully.
Umm J tells her story very conversationally, unpretentiously, and effectively. She loves her characters, all of whom will be interesting elements in future stories about Covered Pearls. At the end of Mustard Seed, the reader will be satisfied, as everything ties up fairly well. The reader, however, will look forward to the next chapter in these Muslimahs' lives.
The Size of a Mustard Seed will be available in July, 2009, insha Allah.
"I'm too lazy to lose weight," "I'm not clever enough to teach my kids", "I'm too fat to wear that dress…" Have you heard yourself saying similar statements before? Maybe you've heard someone talking in such a way? These are explosive assertions that are most common on the tongues of women, and the question remains: why do we put ourselves down?
People tend to put themselves down for various reasons. For some it's a matter of low self-esteem, where they've been told they are a certain way so many times that they've adopted it. For some, it is a sympathy ploy to get others to make a counter-claim. For others, it is an inherent fear that they will disappoint people if they do not surpass their expectations. Whatever the reasons may be, downgrading ourselves is unhealthy and can have adverse effects on our personae. I have seen many people who have been held back in their lives simply because of the way they think about themselves.
When you attach a definite trait to yourself, your actions begin to reflect that trait. When you say you're too lazy to do something, you will behave lazily and fail to get things done. Likewise, if you say you're not intelligent enough to pass a test, you won't work to prove yourself otherwise for it is ingrained in your mind that you're below par. The mind is a powerful thing, and the heart thrives on its thoughts.
Pumping your mind with damaging thoughts persuades your heart to feed on them and embrace them. It will not willingly let them go until you do. The most dangerous aspect of putting yourself down is that it's hard to break the cycle. Even though others may compliment you, your certainty that you are the complete opposite prevents you from freeing yourself of the negativity that weighs you down. These thoughts obstruct you from venturing forth and attaining your dreams; they are hurdles that you must jump in order to move ahead in life. Holding on to such beliefs, will cripple your mind and force you to live up to them. The sad reality is that you will remain undervalued until you discover the value within yourself.
Rather than degrading yourself, why not see yourself as a bird freeing itself from a cage of negativity? Once you spread your wings and fly into a world of endless opportunities by seeing your many positive attributes, you'll find a flock of people wanting to fly with you to reinforce them with you.
You are what you say you are. Spread your wings and take flight on a journey to positive thinking.
Umm Junayd is a multi-talented Muslim woman, who's a sociable introvert, and likes to remain preoccupied by other than her own thoughts. She is the Director of An-Najm Publishers, and loves immersing herself in poetry and fiction.
...and then one day I surprise her. I buy adzuki beans and bake Japanese anpan buns. Something she has never tasted in her entire life. It's 3pm. I know I will find her in the park at this hour and we'll walk through fading leaves, enjoying late September's sun. It's suddenly very peaceful and quiet there. She is pulling her dogs. One barely walks and yet carries an old glove in her mouth - aging poor creature lost her eye, hearing and now mobility, but doesn't let go of her favorite toy. And shetakes care of her with such a touching devotion. The other is yet a puppy, young and vibrant, always in the need to play.
I feel the warmth reaching me through the nature's canvas - trees are hiding in a fantastic spread of yellow, still green, already red and somewhat brown. Air is thin, breathing is easy.
We talk. She has it all packed already, Sunday is her last day here. New home is in another country, her homeland where she hasn't been for half a century.
She turned 80 this year. Her birthday wasn't too cheerful because some of her family were sick and her friend was dying. She lost her husband on her daughter's birthday long time ago...And now she wants to leave the country that she stayed truthful to for years after that.
We part at my doorway and she proceeds to her house, already sold, to feed her dogs. I run inside. Anpan buns are warm, just from the oven where I left them an hour ago. I take a plastic box, cover it with a white napkin and pack a few buns in, grab the key and run to her house. Her garden is impressive. And she'll leave it all behind taking only a few plants with her. I ring and there she is, wrinkled smiling face, always in a good mood, always sharp, always alert.
Come in, dear...what a surprise! Oh, they're still warm! You really didn't have to do that, child...
She pats me on the cheek...her hand is almost weightless. I sigh inside and smile, trying not to show my sadness. I am happy for her, but this neighborhood will be empty when she's not here.
Sunshine through curtains
Peacefully painting in hearts
Farewell good neighbor
A mother of two, former teacher, speech writer and translator, now a haiku poet and a freelance writer who explores various styles and techniques, Camilla Sayf has a passion for literature, languages, history and ancient civilizations, as well as culture and diversity. She writes about the vision she holds for this world, her life experience and what she finds important to be spoken about.
She wanted to divorce her husband. He was not what you would call a bad man, but he was certainly irresponsible. He'd abandoned his university education while she'd finished hers. He was sometimes out of work, and only brought in money when he just had to. But he loved her and his children, though. As the years passed it was her professional career that paid for the house they lived in. She grew tired of his passivity and his presence. One day, as could easily be expected, she said, "Husband, I want a divorce." Naturally he agreed, as he almost always agreed to everything. They separated within the house, each taking different sleeping quarters. That was when Ramadan began. He would occasionally request reconciliation. She would pray.
At the beginning of the last 10 days, the woman was standing in taraweh prayer when a force that was neither sound nor wind shook her where she stood. A voice spoke inside of her. Then she knew that in order to obtain mercy for herself, she must first grant mercy to her husband. She finished her salat and cried and all the years of bitterness and resentment away. She went to her husband, and now they share a room and a house with no old pain in it.
Tahira Abdul-Jalil (Umm Umar) converted to Islam in 1974. She writes for children and adults. Her poetry and stories are about everyday Muslims who are struggling to find, strengthen or return to their faith in an increasingly secular world. She has co-authored several articles in the forthcoming Encyclopedia of Muslim-American History, Edward E. Curtis IV, editor. She blogs at www.muslimwritings.com and at www.footstepstohajj.com.
Hezreen Abdul Rashid is a writer based in Kuala Lumpur. She holds a degree in Accounting from the University of Malaya and she now writes extensively for Islamic magazines in Malaysia. She also contributes to Houston's Iqra' newspaper and Tri- State Muslim Media. She blogs occasionally at http://malaysiapedia.blogspot.com, so do drop her a note and read in the name of Allah!
A Convert's Loss by J. Samia Mair
The pain of losing you
Creeps into my thoughts
I cry, walking down the street
