What inspired you to write Fabric of Hope?

As an Arab American Muslim growing up in the United States, I am interested in expressing my feelings and thoughts about my identity. As I am currently practising wearing the Hijab, I believe that this story is a way to show my reflections on the process.

What was your favourite book as a child and what are you reading at the moment?

One book I enjoyed as a child was The Spider Wick Chronicles by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black. Recently, I have started reading The Twilight series by Stephanie Meyers.

If you could be any character in a book who would you choose?

I would love to be Amal, a teenager in Does My Head Look Big in This? I admire her personality as a determined, brave, smart and loyal Arab Muslim character.

What message are you hoping to give other children reading your book?

I intend to help other children feel confident and proud to express their cultural and religious beliefs. I also intend to encourage them to celebrate and respect their unique differences.

What would be your ideal job when you grow older?

I would love to work in the medical field, perhaps as a children's doctor. I would also like to continue my hobby as a fiction writer.

I understand that this is your first children’s book – do you plan on writing more?

I intend on write as a life long hobby.

What advice would you give to any other young authors who want to write Islamic Children’s literature?

My advice is for them to express their voices honestly and make others aware of the lively, fascinating and humanitarian aspect of Islam.

Are you working on any other books or projects right now?

Yes, I have a few projects in mind and I hope to write another short story soon.

How do you manage writing with your school work?

Since I have set up a schedule for myself, I have an equal amount of time to work on school work and continue doing other projects.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

I enjoy swimming, jogging, dancing and listening to music. I also enjoy playing with my little sister, Amal.

Malak, thank you for your interview!

"Fabric of Hope is a wonderful story that many Muslim girls will be able to relate to. Amal shows that although she dresses a little different, she is just like her classmates in the story."

Editor in Chief, Mariam Sobh

Hijabtrendz.com

Malak Afaneh is an eleven-year-old sixth grader. She lives in Chicago, Illinois, with her mum, dad and baby sister where she enjoys reading, writing and swimming. Malak is an Arabic American who practises wearing the Hijab. She hopes to be a doctor someday and intends to write more stories about Muslims living in the West. She hopes her writing will inspire more girls to wear the Hijab with confidence.

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