Safiyyah's War

This book is thoughtfully written, the words are so descriptive that I could see what was happening in my head as I read. The author really shows instead of telling. There is no gap in character development nor is there any lack of detail. I appreciate this book as this is a piece of history that is often forgotten or left out. This is a historical fiction book best suited for middle grades (i'd say ages 9 and up would really enjoy it) based on the Muslims protecting the Jews from the Nazis in France. A beautiful piece of history unfortunately often (and conveniently) forgotten which serves as the basis for this wonderfully written gem! If you're on the fence about this book, just get it!

I love it when I can binge read a book and that’s exactly what I did with this novel as I couldn’t put it down!“Safiyyah’s War” is a historical fiction (a favourite genre of mine!) set in Paris during World War 2. The novel is gorgeously written and is a stunning blend of eloquent prose and historical authenticity, beautifully capturing the essence of real events.As I delved into the story, I found myself transported to the heart of World War 2 in Paris. The story is based on true events of a Parisian Muslim community and The Grand Mosque in Paris being integral to ushering and saving hundreds of Jews during the war.The main protagonist, Safiyyah, and her journey reminded me that even in the darkest times, compassion and the desire to do what's right, help and serve others can illuminate a path to a better future.I greatly appreciated how artfully the writer integrated the exquisite elements of our Faith and tradition, such as prayer, The Mawlid, and the profound significance of the hijab, into the narrative. I absolutely loved reading this book and highly recommend it!Brilliant work Hiba, thank you 🙏🏼

This was such a easy 5 stars. The story is engaging, emotional and informative - I learned about aspects of WWII I'd had no idea about. This is ideal for Years 5 & 6 upwards. If you're teaching WWII, this would be a wonderful class novel (or at the very least part of your class library).

I absolutely loved reading this heartwarming and incredible story , so much that I honestly didn’t want it to end . Ashamed to say that I honestly didn’t know much about this pivotal moment in history- the role of the Grand Mosque of Paris in saving Jews from the Nazis during World War 2. The book is based on true events and you can see how much research the author has done in writing this book . Many of the incredible characters in the book pay homage to real life heroes too. I loved the main protagonist Safiyyah - what a feisty , kind hearted , incredible and compassionate girl - loved the friendships/ relationships with other characters in the story . It truly is a fantastic historical fiction book , that I don’t think many people know about . My eldest daughter 14 thoroughly enjoyed it and read it one go too .Superb story telling , captivating, really beautifully written , a book that will truly be enjoyed not only by children (9-13) but may I say adults too.

WW2 stories are a particular interest for me, and I love this book. I had no idea about the Grand Mosque in Paris and the role that the Muslim community played in helping Jews to escape the Nazi terror. It is beautifully written, educational, heartwarming and full of suspense. It may be written with children and younger adults in mind, but I would thoroughly recommended it to anyone.