Barakah Beats, written by Maleeha Siddiqui, reviewed by Katy Golden

Summary:  Nimra knows that transferring to a public middle school for seventh grade from her small Islamic academy will be difficult, but she's confident that her best friend, Jenna, will help her through. When Jenna becomes distant and seems to be ashamed that Nimra is the only person at school wearing a hijab, Nimra decides to prove to her that she fits in by joining the cool kids: three older Muslim boys who form the best band around, Barakah Beats. There's only one problem - Nimra's family's interpretation of Islam doesn't allow music.

Straight Talk for Librarians:  Nimra is a refreshingly confident, proud Muslim character who has no interest in hiding herself or her religion, and readers looking for representation will flock to her. There's a lot to learn about Islam and the differences of practice even within the religion, as well as a diverse picture of the different types of people, races, and cultures that identify as Muslim. Although Nimra is wrestling with complicated decisions and issues that impact her family, friends, and religion, the story stays fun and hopeful.