Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is what good YA romance looks like in 2025—diverse, thoughtful, and willing to tackle real issues without becoming an after-school special. S.K. Ali writes Muslim teens as full humans rather than educational tools, which is refreshing and necessary.

The marvels-and-oddities journal device could feel gimmicky but actually works, giving structure to the dual POV and encouraging a mindset of noticing beauty amid difficulty. The Qatar setting adds texture without being exotic tourism.

What makes this work is the balance: it's a romance that earns its sweetness by putting characters through genuine challenges. Adam's MS diagnosis isn't a plot device—it's handled with research and care. Zayneb's anger at discrimination is validated, not lectured away.

The writing is accessible (Lexile HL740L) without being simplistic. Teens who loved 'The Sun Is Also a Star' or need more Muslim representation beyond trauma narratives will find a lot here. It's not revolutionary in structure, but it's solid, heartfelt, and fills an important gap in YA shelves.

Age Fit

Best for ages 14+ who are ready for emotionally complex stories about identity, discrimination, and chronic illness. The romance is clean and the writing is accessible, but the themes require some maturity to fully appreciate. Strong pick for teens seeking diverse, contemporary romance with substance.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

A tender, emotionally mature romance between two Muslim teens dealing with real-world challenges—Islamophobia, chronic illness, grief, and family pressure. Models kindness, self-reflection, and the courage to be authentic. The dual-journal format shows both characters processing their emotions thoughtfully rather than impulsively. Handles heavy topics (MS diagnosis, death of a parent, discrimination) with care and hope without being saccharine.

Imaginative

72

The 'marvels and oddities' journal framework is a creative device that encourages readers to notice wonder in everyday life—from perfect French fries to unexpected connections. The Qatar setting offers cultural texture and perspective rarely seen in YA romance. However, this is primarily a contemporary realistic romance rather than a world-building or concept-driven story, so imagination serves character development more than plot innovation.

Safe

92

Very safe for its target audience (14+). Deals with serious topics—chronic illness (MS), Islamophobia, grief, activism—but handles them with sensitivity and age-appropriate depth. Clean romance without explicit content. The challenges characters face are real but presented in ways that invite empathy and discussion rather than trauma. No graphic violence, sexual content, or shock elements.

Enriching

86

Offers meaningful representation of Muslim teens navigating faith, identity, and discrimination in North America. Explores chronic illness (MS) with nuance, showing how invisible disabilities affect daily life and relationships. Encourages critical thinking about Islamophobia and standing up for what's right. The dual perspective builds empathy for different ways of processing grief and fear. Teens get a window into Qatari culture and the diversity within Muslim communities. Strong emotional intelligence throughout.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Authentic Own Voices representation of Muslim teens that goes beyond stereotypes—characters are complex, funny, flawed, and relatable
Handles chronic illness (MS) with nuance, showing the daily reality of living with an invisible disability without making it the whole story
The 'marvels and oddities' journal format is genuinely charming and encourages readers to notice wonder in everyday life
Addresses Islamophobia and activism in ways that validate teen anger while modeling constructive responses
A genuinely sweet romance that respects cultural and religious boundaries while still being swoon-worthy

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What to Watch For

Deals with discrimination and microaggressions against Muslims—may be heavy for some readers or spark important conversations
MS diagnosis and progression is a central plot point; characters grapple with fear of disability and loss of control
Grief over a parent's death is woven throughout; handled sensitively but still emotionally weighty
Best for teens who enjoy character-driven stories; if your kid needs constant action, this isn't it

Conversation Starters

"What would you put in your 'marvels and oddities' journal today?"
"How do you think Adam's decision to keep his diagnosis secret affected his relationships? Would you have done the same?"
"Zayneb gets suspended for standing up to her teacher's Islamophobia. When is it worth getting in trouble to do what's right?"
"The book shows how grief affects people differently. How do Adam and his dad each handle the loss of Adam's mom?"
"What did you think about the way the book portrayed faith? How did Islam shape the characters' decisions and values?"

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