Love From A to Z

Love From A to Z” by S.K. Ali is a beautiful and heartwarming young adult novel about the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery. The story revolves around two teenagers, Zayneb and Adam, who both face their own personal struggles and find comfort in each other’s company.

Zayneb is a Muslim girl who is dealing with the aftermath of being suspended from her school after confronting her teacher about his Islamophobic comments. She travels to Doha to spend time with her aunt and there she meets Adam, a boy who is dealing with a recent multiple sclerosis diagnosis and the loss of his mother.

As they both navigate their individual challenges, Zayneb and Adam’s connection grows deeper and they find themselves falling in love. The story is told through their alternating perspectives as they exchange letters, which are inspired by the 99 Names of Allah, and try to make sense of their emotions.

The book is suitable for readers aged 14 and above and does not contain any inappropriate or violent language. It is a perfect choice for those who are interested in exploring themes of diversity, inclusion, and cultural identity. Additionally, the story is infused with Islamic values and teachings, but it can be enjoyed by readers of all faiths or no faith at all.

 It is impossible to remain unaffected by the profound wisdom and values of Islam presented in the book, which illustrate how characters derive comfort, direction, and appreciation through their devotion to Allah and their commitment to Islamic principles such as generosity and perseverance.

Here are a few excerpts that  incorporate Islamic values and respect, highlighting the importance of faith, mercy, gratitude, and the belief in Allah’s plan.

– “And then the girl said something that made me think maybe there was some good in the world after all. ‘Insha’Allah,’ she whispered. God willing. I’d never heard someone say it like that, with so much faith in just two words.”

-“And that’s when it hit me. Allah was looking out for us. In His own mysterious way, He was protecting us. It was as if He had placed us on this bus, in this exact spot, at this precise moment, for a reason.”

-“I thought of Allah’s mercy, and how He was always forgiving, always giving us second chances. It made me feel grateful and humble.”

-“The way he talked about Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made me feel like I was witnessing something truly special.”

-“She could see the beauty in everything, even in the struggle. And that’s what I loved most about her. She reminded me that Allah is always with us, even in the hard times.”

-“I had a feeling that this was just the beginning. That Allah had more in store for me than I could ever imagine.”

-“But for now, I’ll be grateful for this moment of peace and the sense of connection to Allah that I feel.” 

-“It’s hard to explain, but there’s something about being here in the presence of so many people who are focused on Allah that makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself.” 

-“It’s not just that I’m grateful for what I have – I’m also grateful to Allah for the opportunity to give to others.” 

-“I can’t explain it, but there’s something about Adam that feels like a gift from Allah, a blessing in the midst of all the challenges that have been thrown my way lately.” 

-“That’s when I remember the word ‘sabr’ that my mom always talks about – patience, the kind that comes from knowing that Allah has a plan for us even when we can’t see it.”