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A review by jesikasbookshelf
Rumaysa: Ever After by Radiya Hafiza
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
5.0
Following on from the brilliant fairytale retellings she delivered in the first Rumaysa book, Radiya Hafiza is back with a sequel which is just as good.
I love the messages this book manages to deliver in a digestible and fun way for young readers: you deserve to see yourself reflected in a book, girls can save the day, boys don't actually have to on point of pride, appearances aren't always truthful and you should always do what you know is right.
What's more, in placing Rumaysa and her friends in the fairytales readers may already be familiar with - here this is mainly Snow White - shows not only young Muslim girls they belong at the head of the story, it helps every other young reader to start expecting protagonists that aren't white males. This representation is incredibly needed in literature, especially for children so they can learn to see themselves as well as others as important.
Then there's the actual fairytale - it is brilliant. The way the author plays with the readers expectations of the narrative whilst still pulling you towards a happy ending is a joy to read.
I love the messages this book manages to deliver in a digestible and fun way for young readers: you deserve to see yourself reflected in a book, girls can save the day, boys don't actually have to on point of pride, appearances aren't always truthful and you should always do what you know is right.
What's more, in placing Rumaysa and her friends in the fairytales readers may already be familiar with - here this is mainly Snow White - shows not only young Muslim girls they belong at the head of the story, it helps every other young reader to start expecting protagonists that aren't white males. This representation is incredibly needed in literature, especially for children so they can learn to see themselves as well as others as important.
Then there's the actual fairytale - it is brilliant. The way the author plays with the readers expectations of the narrative whilst still pulling you towards a happy ending is a joy to read.