Why We Published 'The Muslims.'
We published The Muslims book, to counteract the extremely damaging negative media portrayal of Muslims, and to correct some common misconceptions.
We feel that books are an important tool in improving understanding of people of other cultures and faiths, which leads to respect and a celebration of diversity.
The laugh-out-loud book highlights the fact that we all have more in common than we realise. It also reassures children that the differences that we do have are perfectly fine and in fact, make life more colourful!
We're extremely excited about giving young Muslims a character that they can see themselves and families like theirs in. A book that celebrates both their Islamic and British heritage. A book that makes them feel that they are understood and welcomed in the environment they live in.
Childline revealed that children as young as nine are being branded terrorists in the wake of recent terror attacks in the UK.
Muslim children have told Childline they've endured constant name-calling, been accused of being associated with Isis and been threatened with violence. Young girls have frequently been victimised when they wear a hijab or headscarf, the helpline said.
NSPCC CEO Peter Wanless said: “No child should be targeted because of their race or faith and we cannot allow prejudice to make children feel ashamed of who they are."
We, at Sweet Apple, feel that quirky and fun characters like Omar are the best way to break down prejudice that leads to this type of bullying and name calling. We hope that this book will build bridges and help create a world in which we celebrate diversity and stand together.
The Muslims is recommended for 8-12 year olds and is available at all good bookshops.
