Book Review: Four Eids and a Funeral by Adiba Jaigirdar and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
Happy Release Day (+1) to Four Eids and a Funeral! I’m positively buzzing with excitement to share my thoughts on what’s quickly become one of my favorite romcoms ever. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy—this story poppin’ into my life after Eid was pure serendipity! With exam season finally behind me, I can finally dive into all those “asjskskskshshs” moments I experienced while reading this delightful tale a few months ago.
From the outset, Four Eids and a Funeral drew me in with its unique premise. The title itself is a glorious nod to romcom magic, cleverly intertwined with the heartfelt exploration of community and belonging. We follow the journey of childhood friends-turned-enemies, Tiwa Olatunji and Said Hossain, as they reluctantly team up to save their beloved Islamic center. This setup not only sets the stage for a sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance but also brings rich layers of cultural significance, highlighting the challenges faced within their community.
What’s remarkable about this book is how it captures the essence of youthful love filled with quirks and complexities. I adored Tiwa’s fierce sarcasm and witty one-liners—“I’m more than upset. I’m ready to commot multiple crimes against humanity, but I won’t because that would be haram.” Her character embodies strength while navigating grief and fitting in as a Black Muslim woman. The depth of her experience is woven seamlessly into the narrative, allowing readers to witness her journey through flashbacks that reveal heart-wrenching secrets layered throughout.
Said, with his loverboy energy and humorous quips, had my heart racing. Seeing him reconnect with his faith and community was heartwarming and felt like a gentle reminder of the importance of roots. Their dual POVs work beautifully, providing insight into their conflicting emotions—both anger and undeniable longing—making their journey back to each other all the more poignant.
The writing style is simple yet incredibly effective, evoking the feeling of watching scenes play out in a beloved sitcom. The dialogue flows effortlessly, delivering comedic moments with impeccable timing. The chapter titles, like “Shaitan Himself” and “Muffin Sluts,” are as clever as they are entertaining, giving the readers a taste of the delightful humor that permeates the book. It’s this blend of light-heartedness with serious themes that makes it a standout read for all ages.
This book has an undeniable warmth that wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, making me feel instantly at home. As a reader who shares the same cultural background, it was incredibly moving to see representations of Islamic traditions, reflections on community, and deeper discussions on difficult topics like racism and belonging.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Four Eids and a Funeral to anyone who enjoys a charming, witty, and heartfelt romcom. It’s a celebration of love, friendship, and the complexities of the human experience all wrapped in one. I can’t wait to own my physical copy and revisit the comforting world of Tiwa and Said time and again. If you’re looking for a story that tugs at your heartstrings while simultaneously making you laugh out loud, this one’s for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 Stars)
I’m undeniably obsessed, and trust me when I say you’ll be, too!
