Amina's Voice

My students LOVED this book and I've never witnessed more powerful book club discussions from 10 year olds in my teaching career. This is the first book my students could genuinely relate to, and listening to them talk about the themes, their connection to the characters, and the lessons they learned from this book has been a collection of profound moments as a teacher and adult. I recommend this book to everyone. It is subtly powerful, and I know it is the book my students will remember for years to come.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The main character is very relatable, learns so much about others, and grows so much in this book. While the interfaith aspect is encouraging, it's a bit too rosy for me as an adult, but I don't see this being a problem for the targeted audience of this book. In spite of this, the characters are very realistic--developed with flaws, strengths, and all. It's so easy to experience the emotions of the characters because of Khan's powers of description. As a Muslim, I also enjoyed the gentle way Khan introduces aspects of our faith that are truly beautiful. And the end is very satisfying. Overall, this book is a much needed addition to children's literature. I recommend for grades 4-7.

This is a sweet, heartwarming story of a girl just entering middle school and trying to figure out who she is. I got this book for my daughter but I read it as well. (My daughter is still reading it. She is enjoying it so far since she's been reading it until lights out at bedtime and woke up early to keep reading.) The author does a great job of describing the feelings of the main character and the common feeling kids have as they enter those awkward middle/intermediate school years. It definitely brought back memories and reminded me of what my daughter may be feeling. It is so wonderful to have a book like this especially during this time when minorities in the US are being villianized. It highlights the strength in diversity and the commonalities among us all.

As Amina starts middle school, everything seems to be changing fast. Her best friend Soojin wants an “American name” and is reaching out to make new friends. Her Pakistani uncle visits and disapproves of Amina’s piano playing. When her mosque is vandalized, she thinks more deeply about her Muslim identity, her courage to stand up in front of others, and the support of her family, friends and community. Amina’s voice and feelings resonates strongly in this touching novel. (ages 9-12)

I loved this book and feel it will be an important book to have in my school library. Amina is a Muslim girl with family roots in Pakistan. The story is mostly about her struggles navigating middle school friendships and the things she loves--music--but also fears--performing in front of others. Interwoven with this plot are the cultural and religious aspects of life for both Amina and her Korean friend Soojin. There is much understanding that could come from both adults and students reading this book and I envision using this book in a book club that includes parents and students. I loved how this book truly helped me to look deeper into Islam to have a better understanding about things that are unfamiliar. I look forward to continuing to learn more and appreciate this book jump starting my search for understanding.

I read this book a couple of months ago and knew it would be a hit for one of my Literature Circle groups (6th grade). The students really identified with the characters in the book. Today, I was lucky enough to have Ms. Khan visit my school. This was a wonderful visit, giving a whole new meaning to the word "voice." She spoke to the students in a way they understood (one of my students looked at me during the presentation and mouthed, "She's good" while showing two-thumbs up.). This book is a great read in today's environment ~ the message of acceptance, inclusion, friendship, and individual growth is perfectly delivered.

Absolutely phenomenal book - brilliant writing hits every note in capturing the authentic voice of a teenager, with its emotional intensity and turbulence as she tries to find her footing and define her sense of self among family, friends, faith, as well as the world around her that is by turns hostile and embracing. Family, culture, and religion are elegantly and authentically woven into the story. The book is inspiring, engaging, and a fun read. I'm eagerly awaiting Sr Hena's next book!!

So excited to read this and see how Khan brings the story to life. I am pleased to have another Muslim MG girl to add to my shelf and love that Amina's struggle is one that we can all identify with, while being especially powerful for Muslim readers.

my daughter loved this bookshe is 8 years oldits been a great book to start her away from reading fantasy fairy books and a book with more real realstionships

This book is amazing. I read it in one go. And that’s very rare of me to do.The book is exciting and I absolutely love it. I would recommend it to kids from age 7-10 and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.WARNING ⚠️The beginning is a bit boring but as you read on it gets super exciting.😊😁😀

good

Poor condition considering the cost. It was a gift.

パキスタン系アメリカ人の少女、在米韓国人の親友のアメリカ国籍取得、イスラムセンターに迫る危機など、トピックが新鮮で面白い。英語も比較的読みやすい。2017年ワシントンポスト紙ベストチルドレンブック賞受賞作。