We have a new Superfriend!
In The New York Times last weekend, columnist Nicholas Kristof wrote about Muslim feminism (yes, there is such a thing, and Muslim feminism has many followers). What really caught my eye as intriguing, though, was his mention of Rima Khoreibi, who is “an author from Dubai who wrote a children’s book about an Islamic superhero who is female–Iman, a teenage girl with a cape, head scarf and deep religious convictions.” The book is called “The Adventures of Iman,” and a sequel is due out in December.
A little bit about Iman (from Khoreibi):
Iman is a young, heroic Muslim teen age girl who loves to help those who are in trouble. She has very strong faith in Allah, or God, and when she prays for His help she feels her strength turn into super powers! Iman knows right from wrong, and she always quotes the Koran to explain to others that Islam is a great religion that expects Muslims to be tolerant, kind, righteous, and non-judgmental.
And she wears pink!
Iman always makes sure she has her pretty pink scarf around her neck at all times. She uses the scarf to cover her hair when she is praying to Allah. Iman knows how important and precious it is to have a special bond with Allah. Allah helps anyone who calls His name! Iman also wears a necklace with a pendant that she never takes off. On the beautiful pendant is written “Allah”. When Iman needs Allah’s protection she holds the pendant and says “bism-Illah”, which means “in the name of God.” The pendant then turns into a big shield to protect her from any harm.Iman is a girl who is smart, beautiful, athletic, and friendly and most of all her love and belief in Allah is what makes her the special girl she is.
And, Iman (well, Khoreibi) has a website, too: www.theadventuresofiman.com. Check it out!
posted October 18, 2006 at 11:39 pm
How fabulous! A Muslim superhero. I’m certainly going to check this out and see if I can get some of the comics for my kids. Thanks Donna for blogging this!
posted October 28, 2006 at 8:39 am
Hello Donna! This is Rima, the author of The Adventures of Iman. I want to thank you so much for this amazing review and exposure of the book. I really appreciate it and I look forward to checking out your book and site all the time! Warmest Regards, Rima
posted February 20, 2007 at 11:51 am
Rima,I am an American, Christian-raised grandmother and am very interested in exposing my three grandaughters to the faith and beliefs of all the women of the world. I believe women are united by God, regardless of the face our cultures have shown us. I want to purchase your book, “Iman to the Rescue” but I can’t find it in the U.S. Can I order it somewhere? Thank you for your courage to write about ideas that are not always popular in your faith. Like Iman, you are are a role model. Bismlllah, Christina
posted March 10, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Dear Christina, Thank you very for your support and encouragement. I completely agree with you on women united by God, no matter what our background is. My book series, “The Adventures of Iman” are not avaible in the U.S. yet, but please visit my website, http://www.theadventuresofiman.com for more information. On a final note, please allow me to explain that it is not my faith where this topic is unpopular, but perhaps my culture and traditions. Thanks again and I hope to hear from you soon! Sincerely, Rima
posted March 9, 2008 at 7:25 am
great stuff Rima. And it does not harm that you are stunningly beautiful!
posted February 20, 2009 at 7:33 am
Salam Rima
I’m an italian/egyptian girl…How a great idea is this! I really appreciate it and I’m looking for a place where I can buy your books…
If you want I can translate them in italian…
Thank you for the beautiful gift….
Peace be with you
Rihan