Author: Muhammad Khan
Young British Muslim Muzna Saleem has always managed to fly under the radar, going unnoticed. Things change when she moves to a new school and catches the attention of Arif Malik, the boy capturing the hearts of many of her fellow students.
But is his interest genuine? Or are they just bonding over the sense of otherness? Is Arif hiding something? As the relationship evolves, Muzna finds herself questioning her beliefs and rebelling against her parents. With Arif’s brother creeping her out and the concern of people around her Muzna starts to doubt Arif’s real intentions. But will she be able to get out before it all gets out of control? And will she be able to open Arif’s eyes to the reality he is living in?
I Am Thunder is Muhammad Khan’s first novel and it is without a doubt a very special book. It is fresh and honest and offers readers a point of view that hasn’t been explored as much as it should – the perspective of British Muslims and how the rise of terrorism is affecting their lives.
In this coming-of-age tale Khan touches upon subjects such as racial discrimination, radicalisation and how society is unconsciously criminalising Muslims because of their religious beliefs, regardless of their behaviour and integration.
I Am Thunder is an incredibly powerful debut novel that brings the reader a unique perspective of a world where terrorism is a growing threat. In order to combat racism and foster tolerance and inclusiveness, the world needs more books like this. A fun, thought-provoking and (at times) scary read!
> Naomi Round
