From My Sisters' Lips - Softcover

Covered from head to toe with only her eyes visible, the sight of a Muslim woman on a western city street rarely fails to provoke a strong reaction. Feelings of shock, horror, repulsion, pity or even fear are not uncommon. But have you ever wondered who it is behind the veil and what makes her tick? Ever wondered what her life is really like and whether her dreams, hopes and aspirations differ from yours? Now, in FROM MY SISTERS' LIPS, Na'ima B Robert offers a rare glimpse into the lives of a community of women, most of whom are converts to Islam, and invites you to share their joys, sorrows, convictions and faith. When Na'ima B Robert abandoned her western lifestyle and embraced Islam six years ago, it was not a decision taken lightly. Yet soon after she took the first tentative steps towards covering, she felt empowered; no longer judged on physical appearances alone, no longer seeking the approval to feel beautiful - or using her looks to wield power over men - the experience effected her greatly. Before long she grew in confidence and courage. As she says, 'Something just clicked. I thought, Good, don't look; don't compare me with your latest squeeze, don't try and guess my measurements - my body is my own business!' As Na'ima recounts the compelling story of her conversion to Islam, she also offers first-hand accounts of just some of the extraordinary Muslim women she has come to know in recent years - women like herself who have chosen to live behind the veil. What emerges is a vivid and intimate portrait of a sisterhood; as they speak candidly and with conviction on a diverse range of subjects ranging from marriage to motherhood, stereotypes, submission and self-image, we hear the strong, proud voices of those who are seldom heard. Controversial and surprising, FROM MY SISTERS' LIPS is an invitation to a world usually seen only by those priviledged enough to be admitted to it's inner circle. It is also a celebration of womanhood - a celebration of those who have chosen to live behind the veil.