Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero

“Yusuf Azeem is Not a Hero” by Saadia Faruqi is a powerful middle-grade contemporary novel that deals with important issues of racism, Islamophobia, stereotyping and xenophobia.

This 384 pages novel follows the story of a nearly twelve-year-old and introverted Pakistani-American boy named Yusuf Azeem. Yussef is an average student, but he has a passion for robotics and dreams of winning a competition.

Initially excited to start sixth grade, Yusuf’s enthusiasm quickly dwindles when he discovers hostile and racist messages in his school locker. The novel highlights the struggles endured by Yusuf’s family, who are one of just eleven Muslim households residing in the small town of Frey, Texas, where the rise in Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism over the weeks leading up to the 20th anniversary of 9/11 has only exacerbated their situation.

Ethan Grant, the son of a white nationalist, and Yusuf’s adversary, is a vicious bully who opposes the construction of a town mosque. Attempting to keep a low profile, Yusuf strives to avoid Ethan’s harassment, but things take a sour turn when the latter accuses Yusuf of carrying a bomb in his backpack, leading to devastating consequences. With the support of his friends, Yusuf stands up to Ethan and his intolerant father. Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero urges readers to combat stereotypes, condemn ignorance and bigotry, and promote inclusivity and respect for diverse cultures, values, and lifestyles.

The novel highlights the impact of stereotyping on Yussef’s life. The unjust treatment he faces from his schoolmates and community is a direct result of the narrow-mindedness and assumptions people make about his culture and religion.  The novel aims to break these stereotypes and promotes cultural and religious diversity and acceptance and teaches a valuable lesson on being true to oneself and that one’s worth is not defined by the opinions of others.