Join the four protagonists on an exciting journey as they dive into the most current discussions about Islam and feminism, typically reserved for academia and specialized feminists. Zahra proudly wears the hijab and challenges the widespread assumption that Islam and feminism are mutually exclusive. Hamza, on the other hand, faces various toxic stereotypes about masculinity and the roles he is expected to perform. Mariama, as a Black Muslim woman, grapples with how her world is shaped by colonialism and discrimination. And Amari finds their own path through the seemingly rigid categories of sexuality and gender. This interactive graphic novel invites readers to engage with important conversations on Islam, gender and sexuality, and shows how young people can make a difference in society.

Dr. Lana Sirri is a Research Fellow at the Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam. She is the author of Islamic Feminism: Discourses on Gender and Sexuality in Contemporary Islam, published in 2020 in the Routledge series "Critical Studies in Religion, Gender, and Sexuality." Her current research, funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) for 2022-2026, is titled Muslim Women on the Front Lines of Social and Political Change: A Case Study of the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries.

‘In this vibrant graphic novel, Lana Sirri offers a powerful, accessible introduction to major ideas at the intersection of decoloniality and Islamic feminism. Skillfully weaving an intersectional lens that challenges systems of oppression, she presents the range of rich and diverse voices within historically marginalized communities. Inviting readers to explore the multifaceted journeys of resilience, liberation, and social justice, the work is also astutely attentive to the geopolitics of Islamophobia which frames contemporary debates of Islam, gender and sexuality. This is a wonderfully engaging read!’
– Professor Sa’diyya Shaikh, University of Cape Town

‘Shababz! is a profound exploration and celebration of Islamic feminism. With its clear and accessible illustrations, the book guides readers through its rich history and introduces its key thinkers. It also offers a powerful look at the prejudices and discrimination that many Muslims (of all genders) face every day. A must-read for every feminist.’
– Zoë Papaikonomou, journalist, speaker and author of The Inclusion Marathon (2023)

‘Shababz! belongs in every library. It takes readers of all ages and backgrounds on a journey that is as fun as it is enlightening.’
– Professor Fatima El-Tayeb, Yale University

Introduction: Dear Reader

Chapter 1: The Gang (In this chapter, we dive deep into the complex socio-cultural landscape young Muslims navigate in a Western society)

Chapter 2: Speaking and Being (The chapter delves into the challenges of representation and the racial politics of speaking on behalf of Muslims)

Chapter 3: Love is Revolution (This chapter addresses the challenges of reconciling Muslim and sexual identities takes center stage)

Chapter 4: Echoes of Manhood (This chapter provides a nuanced portrayal of the challenges young Muslim men face in modern society, while highlighting the universal struggles of youth across cultures and generations)

Chapter 5: Legal Illuminations: Deciphering Justice in Faith (In this chapter, readers are immersed in the realm of feminist Tasfir (the re-reading and re- interpretation of sacred texts) and feminist Ijtihad (independent reasoning)

Chapter 6: Echoes of the Past (This chapter ties in historical context with contemporary issues and pushes readers to reflect on the lasting impacts of colonialism and patriarchy)

Chapter 7: Breaking Boundaries (This chapter traverses various crucial topics, including capitalism, sexism, patriarchy, cultural misinterpretation, and intersectionality, and the multifaceted societal challenges faced by Muslim women)

Chapter 8: Voices Unsilenced - A Queer Muslim Dialogue (This chapter offers a robust exploration of the complexities faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims, skillfully combining narrative and dialogue to engage readers)

Chapter 9: Memories and Manifestos - A Journey Continued (The chapter also features an interactive section, encouraging readers to actively engage with the narrative and with self-reflection)