Reviews

“Our Ancestors Did Not Breathe This Air has left a memorable impression, from its daring art to its finest lines. I was deeply fascinated by old charm entangled with modern vibes, allowing each generation to feel a deep connection. Pieces in here touched memories of my childhood, spanning to the current reality of me being a woman. It is a timeless collection that tells the story of all with a warm welcome and hopeful goodbye. I find myself reading Our Ancestors Did Not Breathe This Air anytime I want to feel connected with my ancestors and myself. While the voices of the poets are unique, together all feel collectively the voice of many women. This is definitely a ‘read in one sitting’ anthology, and it keeps you coming back for more. I’d even go far enough to say you’ll find something new each time you read it.”

Nehan Shujaat, Author of Here’s the Chai

“A moving collection of poems on migration, belonging, identity, and intimacy from a new generation of young Muslim women who bring not only a fresh voice to these issues, but a poignancy that is both lyrical and urgent.”

Sana Aiyar, Author of Indians in Kenya: The Politics of Diaspora

“Our Ancestors Did Not Breathe This Air gives readers a spectacular insight into the struggle of finding home for these six brilliant women, all daughters of immigrants or immigrants themselves. Their unique voices each convey a sense of perceptiveness and keen intelligence, leaving readers awestruck as they journey around the world with them. This collection gives appreciation to how much more in common we have to celebrate despite our differences.”

Sara Bawany, Author of (w)holehearted: a collection of poetry and prose 

“Once, while reading an Arabic poem to a teacher, I noticed what I thought was a mistake. He smiled and said, ‘What is allowed for a poet is not for others.’ He meant that the standard rules of language cannot always bridle a poet’s passion. The poet’s voice, emotion, and imagery spawn intense yet subtle feelings that rub us in unique ways. The Arabic word for poetry is from the same word as hair because poetry is sensitive to the touch. Our Ancestors Did Not Breathe This Air is a beautiful collection of poems from brilliant Muslim women. It touches on things many are unable to perceive. Through a rich journey of thought and ideas, each poet captures highly personal imagery that none of us can afford to ignore. I strongly encourage the reading and studying of this vital work.” 

Suhaib Webb, Resident Scholar of Islamic Center at NYU

“Reading this book is like entering an intimate, enlivening conversation between close friends, because that’s what it is. The writers’ compassion for and trust in each other is evident throughout its pages. And in reading it, you too will feel cared for.”

Prof. Musa Syeed, Director of Valley Of Saints