Under the Full and Crescent Moon - by Aamir Hussain (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In a battle of words and beliefs, a young woman must defend her city against zealotry during the Islamic Golden Age.

After his long-time scribe retires, Khadija's father, the city's leading jurist, offers his introverted daughter the opportunity to take on the role of his assistant. In accepting, Khadija is thrust into her community, the medieval hilltop city of Medina'tul-Agham, where she, as a motherless young woman, has spent little time. Led by Imam Fatima and guided by the Circle of Mothers, it is a matriarchy -- the only one in the empire. Though forced to set aside her quiet life among the books and parchments of her family home, Khadija thrives, finding her power and place in the world with the support of her new friends and strong female mentors.

Yet Khadija's idyllic new life is shattered when fanatical forces weaponize Sharia law to threaten the very fabric of the society. Using only the power of her parchment and quill, Khadija must win the support of the people and write fatwas to fight against injustice, or the peace and prosperity of her city will be nothing more than a footnote in the annals of history.

Review Quotes

A first novel by an author who represents the very best of the enrichment that an immigrant family can contribute to their new country. Under the Full and Crescent Moon is a wonderful work of historical fiction, populated with a large cast of memorable characters, and infused with a deep knowledge of Muslim religious tradition and history. It is beautifully written, with an ear for dialogue that brings his characters vividly and convincingly to life, and a plot-line that carries the reader forward with eagerness to a satisfying conclusion.

A resonant reimagining of Islamic history crafted with fierce intelligence and masterly worldbuilding. In this timeless and timely debut, Hussain interrogates power, conviction and social change with storytelling grace.

-- "Sumaiya Matin, Author of The Shaytan Bride"

Aamir Hussain's Under the Full and Crescent Moon is a wholesome, enchanting tale set in a medieval Muslim matriarchy that tackles critical and necessary questions about current Islamic principles, customs and interpretation. Meticulously researched, Hussain's stellar debut invites reflection, debate and dialogue. Mashallah.

-- "Salma Hussain, author of The Secret Diary of Mona Hasan"

By telling a tale of an Islamic matriarchy, Aamir Hussain throws down the gauntlet--and Muslim fiction is better for it.

-- "Saad T. Farooqi, author of White World"

About the Author

Aamir Hussain was born into a family of strong women in Pakistan, grew up in Saudi Arabia, and moved to Canada when he was fifteen years old. Under the Full and Crescent Moon is his debut novel. He lives in Milton, Ontario.