Reviews

In The Shadow of the Prophet by A. Afaf

sarahreads143's review

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

east_west_home_is_best's review against another edition

emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

fhaytham's review against another edition

adventurous emotional informative sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

very informative on what it may have been like to be alive during the spread of Islam in the Arabian peninsula. I loved the characters and grew to respect their flaws and wounds rather than despise them for them. I appreciated that this is literature representing a demographic normally scrutinized by western entertainment and media. It was a little slow to start for me but by the end I was reading quickly and wanting to know what happened next. 

natashiataylor's review against another edition

adventurous challenging emotional funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

drafz's review

emotional reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Once I picked up this book, I could not put it down. The story is so beautifully written, with character development that allows the readers to see religion and spirituality through multiple lenses. 
There is a thoughtfulness and a gentleness to the pacing of this story that held my interest easily. The perspective shifts and the care with which the author handled the passage of time in the story stood out to me most. More than anything, this story shines light on family in the midst of change, and I think there are many lessons we can learn from the sisters in this story. I did cry at a couple points because of how relatable the characters felt at times- it seemed like I had walked through joy and heartbreak with them. 
I would highly recommend reading this novel for yourself (my words don’t capture the lovely mix emotions the story will stir for you); the ending brings about a sense of hope and words of kindness that the world needs greatly. Thank you so much for a truly beautiful story.