Builders of a Nation

Reviewed by: Imran Mogra – Birmingham, UK

Published by: Markfield: Kube Publishing with Jannah Institute, 2024, 198pp. ISBN: 978-1847742131.

In Builders of a Nation, Haifaa Younis an American Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, has collected brief historical accounts of inspirational women. This elegant hardback is divided into three unequal parts. The author rightly begins with sixteen women of the household of the Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) in the first part, followed by eight female Companions. The third part consists of 13 pioneers of Islamic history.

The cover is markedly attention-grabbing and the internal floral presentations are aesthetically pleasing. The content is accessible and facilitates repeated reading over time. It is ideal for beginners who are venturing to discover the vast literature about Muslim women in Islamic history. An informative feature of the book is that, before some chapters, the status or key information about the personality in question is highlighted to act as a motivator. Occasionally, the author has inserted questions to promote reflection, introspection and incentives for action. The verses of the Qurʾān are referenced as are most of the hadiths but not the actual events.