Summary
When Nimra joins the public school after years in an Islamic school, she’s not expecting to become part of Barakah Beats, a popular boy band in her school. That happens when her best friend acts strange after Nimra decides to wear her hijab to public school. Nimra is desperate to keep their friendship, even if it means joining a boy band when it conflicts with her Islamic beliefs; she likes hanging out with the band-they value her contributions and respect how important her faith is to her.
Theme(s):
Friendships, family, faith, and finding your passion.
Personal Response
Barakah Beats is an engaging middle-grade book about balancing your faith with your passions while finding your tribe. Young Nimra is a lovable Muslim protagonist who enjoys practicing her faith and gets caught up trying to hold on to a disintegrating friendship. Kids who enjoy drawing and books about arts and crafting will enjoy seeing Nimra pursue her art. This will also appeal to fans of middle-grade books about music.
Teaching Ideas
This is an excellent book to introduce other cultures, languages, and religions into the classroom. Students can describe different character traits Nimra Sharif portrays and explain why. This story can also fill out a story elements map, including the setting, characters, problem, and solution.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 06, Grade 07
