Barakah Beats by Maleeha Siddiqui (Scholastic, 2021) is a heartfelt middle-grade novel about friendship, identity, and staying true to yourself. When 12-year-old Nimra Sharif transfers to a new school, she finds herself struggling to fit in. Hoping to prove she belongs, she joins the popular band Barakah Beats—even though music clashes with her Islamic faith and her parents’ expectations.
With humor, warmth, and honesty, Siddiqui explores the challenges of balancing personal beliefs with friendship and peer pressure. Barakah Beats is a relatable and empowering story for kids navigating cultural identity, faith, and the ups and downs of middle school life.
📌 Perfect For
Readers ages 8–12 who enjoy realistic, heartfelt stories
Fans of Amina’s Voice and The First Rule of Punk
Classrooms and book clubs exploring diverse voices in children’s literature
Parents and educators looking for books with Muslim representation
 
 
🎯 Recommended Reading Age
Reading Age: 8–12 years
Grade Level: 3–7