Book Review: Salaam, with Love by Saadia Faruqi
At 1 AM, with my eyes half-open and my heart full, I finally closed Salaam, with Love by Saadia Faruqi. I found myself deeply immersed in the tender and heartfelt journey of Dua, a young Muslim girl navigating her faith and family ties during Ramadan. From the first glance of the cover, I anticipated a light, cute read—a delightful halal romance—but what I discovered was a rich tapestry of emotions that had me crying, reflecting, and giggling all at once.
In Salaam, with Love, Dua is an only child, sent by her father from Pakistan to stay with her uncle’s family in New York for Ramadan. Although I anticipated a straightforward contemporary romance, I was delighted to find that Faruqi explores the complexities of familial relationships, the significance of faith, and the challenges Muslims face living in a world where their identity is often misunderstood or misrepresented.
Dua’s character is relatable on so many levels. She grapples with the imperfections of being a good Muslim—struggling to pray on time, understanding her readings of the Quran, and seeking to reconnect with her faith amidst external pressures. This authenticity brought tears to my eyes; I could see myself in her journey of soul-searching. One memorable quote resonated deeply with me: “What did that feel like? To love with your whole being, and know without a doubt that the object of your love cared for you more than you cared for Him?” It encapsulates the profound struggles we face in our spiritual journeys.
Faruqi beautifully captures the essence of Ramadan—a month of reflection, self-improvement, and community. I particularly appreciated how the author intricately illustrated the celebrations, rituals, and how Dua endeavored to become a better person during this holy time. The portrayal of family dynamics, especially Dua’s reconnections with her extended family, is comforting and genuine, adding layers to the narrative. The celebration of Eid had me grinning ear to ear, reminding me of the joy that comes with family ties.
Another layer the book touches upon is the experience of Islamophobia, an issue that hits close to home for many readers. Dua’s encounters remind us of the societal challenges faced by Muslims, reflecting a reality we often see in the world. Faruqi’s approach, however, is never heavy-handed. Instead, it invites empathy and understanding, making it a powerful commentary within a young adult romance.
Now, let’s talk about the romance. Oh my goodness—HALAL. It was sweet, subtle, and filled with those exciting moments that leave you giddy. Dua and her romantic interest share stolen glances and innocent blushes, building a charming atmosphere that’s both refreshing and oh-so-relatable. The slow-burn style echoes the best of Bollywood romances, making my heart flutter in pure joy.
Although this may not be the most flawless book out there—there are certainly aspects that could be further refined—it holds a special place in my heart. It sparked happiness, reflection, and a deeper connection to my own faith.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone, especially my Muslim friends of all ages. It’s not just a story; it’s a journey toward understanding oneself better, laughing through familial quirks, and ultimately, finding solace in God during trying times. If you’re seeking a book that embraces love, identity, and community while delivering warmth and humor, Salaam, with Love is an absolute must-read. Thank you, Saadia Faruqi, for this beautiful gift.