Saffron Dreams explores experience of Muslims in America

PRESS RELEASE

Kristina Lycett
PO Box 204352
Austin, TX 78720-4352
512-924-7674
kristina.lycett@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 9, 2009

Muslim-American novelist explores identity

In the wake of the upcoming anniversary of 9/11, new novel seeks to crush stereotypes and examines the changed landscape of Muslim America

To commemorate the anniversary of the biggest catastrophe in American history, President Barack Obama signed into law an act that establishes September 11 as an annually recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance. In a few short weeks, we will be forced to ask ourselves this question again: what is that we remember? Who do we blame? Once again we will be confronted with our own perception of the actual perpetrators and those who share their race and faith.

“Saffron Dreams,” a novel by Muslim-American author Shaila Abdullah, tackles the volatile subject of Muslim identity in America at a time when it is needed the most. Arissa Illahi, the main character of Abdullah’s new novel, is a Muslim artist and writer living in New York City with her husband. On the morning of September 11, 2001, her husband goes to work never to return. Arissa, a devastated widow must await the birth of her unborn son while dealing with the after effects of a monumental tragedy and a wounded city that reacts harshly to her symbol of faith––her veil. “Saffron Dreams” allows us to see the ways in which human beings triumph over circumstances wrenched from their control and gradually find ways to re-adjust their dreams and move forward.

Hundreds of libraries have acquired “Saffron Dreams” since its release and the book has generated a great deal of interest in the book review world. “Abdullah handled a controversial subject and made the book about our common humanity, rather than about the differences that divide us,” says Swapna Krishna of S. Krishna Books. A master storyteller and an award-winning writer, Abdullah crafts her characters to enhance her themes of tolerance and hope. The novel is a memorial to the victims of 9/11, a source of strength for the survivors, and a vehicle of understanding for those struggling to make sense of the conflict between the East and West. “The author manages to tell this tale with such a delicate touch, never falling into the maudlin and never giving Arissa the powers of a superhero,” notes Jenclair in A Garden Carried in Your Pocket. “A beautifully written narrative that looks at the aftermath of September 11 with a slightly different perspective, the book unfolds and blossoms with an unexpected tenderness while never denying the myriad effects of tragedy.”

Shaila Abdullah is an award-winning author and designer based in Austin, Texas. Her debut book, "Beyond the Cayenne Wall," is a collection of stories about Pakistani women struggling to find their individuality despite the barriers imposed by society. The collection won the Norumbega Jury Prize for Outstanding Fiction and the DIY Festival Award.

Hailed as "highly recommended" by Library Journal, “Saffron Dreams” (978-1-932690-73-6 paperback, 978-1-932690-72-9 hardcover, Modern History Press, 2009) can be purchased through local and online bookstores. Review copies are available upon request. For more information and an online media kit, please visit www.shailaabdullah.com.

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