Since its first inception, the IWA has established various goals in order to achieve its main purpose of promoting and sponsoring literacy worldwide. These goals include, but need not be limited to:
1) Providing a strong network base for Muslims involved somehow in the production of Islamic literature (i.e. writers, editors, illustrators, designers, publishers, distributors, etc.). This network is not merely a social network, but of a professional standard in which the members are expected to give as much as they take, sharing experiences and advice in all areas which may help to promote the work of each individual of the group. This includes also support and guidance for unpublished authors in their efforts to seek publication, and manners of promoting their works to Islamic publishers.
2) Promoting Islamic Fiction books and their authors, editors, publishers, illustrators and all others involved in the process of producing Islamic Fiction.
3) To promote reading and writing of creative Islamic fiction among Muslim children, the future authors of Islamic literature.
4) To make regular donations of quality Islamic books to Islamic schools and libraries.
Each year the IWA initiates projects and programs designed to accomplish these goals and more. Past and ongoing IWA programs and projects include, but are not limited to what follows:
IWA Published Anthologies
Many Voices, One Faith II - Islamic Fiction Stories is a collection of short stories published in 2009, all contributions from the talent of the IWA membership, including the beautiful illustrations, book cover design, as well as the editing and publishing. An unforgetful experience in reading and a cherished favorite for any bookshelf, this anthology will certainly be a delight to all who are fortunate to have it. Click on the book title for more information about purchasing. Special consideration may be made for retailers, overseas (outside continental US), and school purchases. Contact the publisher via the link provided for more information.
Many Poetic Voices, One Faith is a collection of varrying styles and themes of poetry published in 2009, all contributions from IWA members. From the stylish bookcover to the intriguing artwork in addition to the creativity of the poetry, you will certainly be captivated by this beautiful one-of-a-kind collection, and return to it over again, savoring every section as one does the most delectible meal. Contact the publisher directly for more information on how to purchase, as well as any possible special consideration for retailers buying in bulk, overseas shipments, or schools or other Islamic institutions.
Annual Poetry Contest
Each year the IWA sponsors an annual Poetry contest which is open to the Public. Certificates and cash prizes to first place winners are awarded. You can learn more about the contest eligibility and rules here. For a view of previous winning entries in the IWA's annual Poetry Contest, click here.
Annual Islamic Fiction Stories Contest
Each year the IWA sponsors an annual Islamic Fiction Stories contest which is open to the Public. Certificates and cash prizes to first place winners are awarded. You can learn more about the contest eligibility and rules here. For a view of previous winning entries in the IWA's annual Islamic Fiction Stories Contest, click here.
Annual Non-Fiction Articles Contest
The IWA is pleased to present this new venue and genre of contest in the non-fiction category of article writing, initiated in 2011 with the help of the Zakat Foundation of America as the co-sponsor. Certificates and cash prizes are awarded to first place winners of each category. Details concerning contest eligibility and and submission guidelines can be found here.
IWA-Sponsored Creative Writing Contests
Upon request of an Islamic School, the IWA will sponsor a creative writing contest for students 5th through 12th grades. The school principal or any other responsible school representative may contact any IWA Board member to request sponsorship. Rules, eligibility and prize awards will be discussed when a request is received.
Annual Islamic School Library Book Awards
Each year in December the IWA Board selects Islamic schools previously nominated during that year for this, and awards them free fiction and non-fiction books for the schools' libraries. The following schools have received book awards:
2009 - Al-Hedayah Islamic School - Texas
Islamic School of Rhode Island
2010 - Salah Tawfik Elementary and Middle School (STEMS) - Sunrise, Florida, USA
M A Institute - UK
Free E-Book
In support of Muslim Writers Publishing's Voices for Africa project, we are offering this free booklet of art and poetry from and about Africa, as the free ebook Voices for Africa. The goal is to remind readers of the plight of many hudreds of thousands of Africans and to encourage generosity. Simply click on the title for your free download of the ebook.
