An author who has drawn inspiration from her own faith is to launch her new book which aims to diversify children’s literature.

Zanib Mian who grew up in Harrow in a Pakistan Muslim family, Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet in response to the lack of diverse books available for children.

The story follows Omar who is loosely based on her own son. Omar narrates his story of starting at a new school, where he becomes the target of bullying.

Harrow Times:

Zanib adds: “I wanted to convey what a ‘normal’ British Muslim family are like. Many readers will relate and many more will learn about things they might have been too afraid to ask.”

Zanib recognises the negative stereotypes about Muslims in modern society and hopes her own book will allow people to learn more about the religion.

She said: “I sometimes feel that Muslims are the most misunderstood group of people on the planet.

“Their constant misrepresentation in the news has built such a negative stereotype, the consequence of which is being felt everywhere, even in school playgrounds.

“I wanted to contribute something positive to the world to allow everyone to get to know the real Muslims.”

Zanib believes her story can be used as a humour tool for people to understand the lives of Muslims better and give answers to questions which people are too afraid to ask.

Zanib said: “When I was young, people like me simply weren’t in stories and I think it would have made a huge difference if I had seen my experiences reflected in what I read.

“Sadly, some 30 years later I still don’t see enough BAME characters as the main protagonist in children’s fiction.”

As a result of her passion for diversity and inclusivity Zanib launched Sweet Apple Publishers to represent people from all backgrounds in books for children.

She said: “Diversity is extremely important to me. If children see people like themselves in a book it has a huge impact on their reading and writing.

“Books that feature everyone also act as a window into the lives of others, building bridges and overcoming prejudice.”

Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet written by Zanib Mian and illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik, published by Hodder Children’s Books, will be available for purchase from April 18.