Muslims have alot to say about their experiences and the world--we need to tell our stories and create a world of excellence like the artists of the past.
Reading is a vital requirement for our children to succeed in schools and become productive members of society. Reading fiction is part of the repertoir out there, and Islamic fiction should be part of every muslim child growing up in this country.
I support this petition because we are forging a new identity for ourselves as English-speaking Muslims/Muslims in the west, and storytelling and fiction are important and necesary elements of that culture. Having our own literature is as important as having our own schools etc.
because I believe muslims can communicate, read, and write - and self-representation is inherent to human beings. Art & humanity are not the sole possessions of their authors or artists, they are for humanity and from the One who inspires. Fiction that uplifts and directs the soul towards the Hereafter should be seriously reflected on. "Politicians use the truth [facts] to tell lies; artists use lies [art] to tell the truth."
because as Sister Pamela said, we need quality, well written halal fiction that entertains and inspires, and we need to encourage the creativity that storytelling can unlock in children and adults.
Pamela Taylor is absolutely right about fiction reaching aspects of people that non-fiction can't touch.
I emphatically agree that our children need more fiction in their lives.
Too many Muslim children don't have enough imagination, and that's what fiction feeds.
because I strongly believe that reading creates awareness. With that, insya'Allah, more individuals (be it non-Muslims, born Muslims and reverts) will come to understand and love Islam more.
Fiction is paramount. I believe that for the Muslim ummah to progress, much more attention should be paid to the creation of culture - perhaps best manifested in the creation of literature, that will offer alternative narratives for, by and about Muslims.
because we need an alternative (especially for Muslim Youth and children as Fiction books are which appeal to youth. We need Islamic fiction as it would help our youth to read books that instill Islamic teaching
because I have at least two children who can devour two chapter books in a matter of an hour or less. It'd be nice if there are more Muslim fiction books to devour.
Mishkat Publishing is striving to fill the the existing void of quality Islamic fiction. Please visit us at www.IslmaicFiction.com and look out for our upcoming publications.
Islaamic fiction is an excellent way to bridge the generation gap, learn about Islaam and ensure that content does not conflict with Islaamic teachings.
because I believe it is important to the strength of our youth and community to develop a cultural appreciation for Islamic fiction in order to grow the artisitic contributions of our community and allow Muslim authors and readers to participate in an exchange of ideas, feelings and thoughts that help our community grow and prosper. I, as a reader would rather buy good islamic fiction than other types of fiction. Insha'Allah this can happen for our community.
The treatment of all matters Islamic by bookstores is nothing less than censorship. ZYesterday I visited a look chain store. The "Religion" had in excess of 30 shelves of Christian material and only FOUR (count 'em!) books related to Islam. Two were single copies of two different editions of the Koran and two were books on Islam by NON-Muslims! This on a day when the entire Muslim world is watching Lebanon being bombed to smithereens!
I support this petition because children love reading fiction, but they usually do not find the role models they need and deserve in mainstream books, which often promote values that are contrary to Islam. My own daughter devours several books a week, and it has been a challenge for me to find the books that will help her grow as a Muslim. By seeing how different character deal with life's challenges, Muslim fiction can help our children develop good character and the analytical skills needed to solve everyday problems.
because Muslims (children/teens/adults/pa rents/teachers/communitie s)need and have asked me countless times for English language Islamic fiction books. Muslims in other countries outside North America ask for English langualge Islamic fiction books for ESL classes as well. This genre of literature can make positive inroads into the non Muslim's understanding of Muslims and Islam.
Storytelling is a traditional Islamic art and the novel brings this art right into the home. Muslims of all ages need the contemporary Muslim story as a vehicle for interpreting the world in an Islamic light. Non Muslims might also appreciate an insight into the diversity and unity of the Muslim way of life that the art of storytelling can provide.
Fiction has historically been a useful tool in Muslim societies overseas. It both entertains and teaches. Muslims in America deserve access to quality stories which promote Islam.
