Need Ideas for a Story about Muslim Teen Girls
Salam sisters, I'm an author and this idea keeps coming back to me, so I need some input. I'm thinking of writing a story about Muslim teenage girls, where each girl faces a struggle that many of us deal with today. What was hard for you while growing up as a Muslim teen in the West? I'm 18 and my biggest challenge has been social pressure. Islamic viewpoints aren't really respected here in England, and I care about fitting in, so I often feel alone and sad thinking my British friends would judge me if I were honest about my beliefs. It's exhausting to feel like people only accept you conditionally and that you can't be yourself. Another issue I want to include is feeling same-sex attraction as a Muslim and choosing not to act on it - the inner conflict and the need for support. I also want to explore trying to give up a sin you enjoy, like drawing or another hobby that might be questionable for some, and doing it sincerely for the sake of Allah. Please share more ideas. Maybe struggles with modesty in sports or school, dealing with insensitive teachers or classmates, balancing faith with academic pressure, finding halal social spaces, managing family expectations and cultural clashes, or coping with mental health while keeping up religious obligations. The girls in the story will grow in iman and friendship together. I want the book to carry a moral lesson but still feel real about our challenges. Sorry if this is messy - it's 3 am lol. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or stories you can share.