Why We Started A Children's Islamic Bookstore

Hi, I’m Asmaa Hussein — writer, mother, and the proud “Director of Awesomeness” at Ruqaya’s Bookshelf, a Canadian publishing company creating bright, engaging, and meaningful Muslim children’s books.

Since 2015, my mission has been simple: to help parents raise confident, faith-filled kids through stories that reflect Islamic values and celebrate Muslim culture.

I know how important it is for children to see themselves in the books they read — characters who look like them, share their experiences, and live their faith. That’s why every book we publish features Muslim protagonists and heartfelt lessons to nurture strong character and a deep love for deen.

Beyond books, we share gentle Islamic parenting tips, creative ideas, and Islamic reflections to help families bring faith to life at home.

This work is deeply personal for me. After my devotion to God, my daughter Ruqaya is my greatest source of inspiration. As a widowed mother raising a beautiful and spirited girl, I strive to show her the importance of dedication, determination, and excellence. And I want to give parents tools and stories to raise the next generation of proud, compassionate Muslim children — children who know their story matters.

Ruqaya’s love for books is endless, and that’s why I named this company after her.

So come on in, pull up a chair, and set foot in our world of Muslim children's books.

Explore the Islamic storybooks in our children's Islamic bookstore and join us in nurturing the next generation of young Muslims who will grow up strong in faith and full of imagination!