We know that the branches of Christianity differ widely on just about anything under the sun.  Those of us who have spent any time studying Judaism know that it has quite distinct branches.  So why do we expect Islam to be monolithic?  Muslims differ over many controversial issues including the acceptability of music.  That's the message Maleeha Siddiqui delivers to young readers in Bahakah Beats.

     As she enters 7th grade Nimra is attending public school for the first time.  A lot is confusing.  The work is more demanding.  And being in the same school as her best friend Jenna is not all she hoped for.  Jenna seems to be ditching her for a popular athlete crowd.

     What catches Jenna's attention is that a popular eighth grade Islamic boy band asks Nimra to be their 4th member.  Nimra is sure her parents would never go for the idea.  But if she joins just long enough to win Jenna back they'd never have to know.  She isn't counting on really bonding with her bandmates.  With an upcoming public performance she has to decide who she's going to let down.

     Siddiqui deftly delivers insights into a fascinating world religion through this engaging and relatable narrative of a girl doing her best to make it through 7h grade. 

Jules Hathaway