Book synopsis

You cannot do anything in this country without my permission.” Being a teenager isn’t easy. And it doesn’t help when you have a mega strict Egyptian dad who tells you that everything is “haram” a.k.a. forbidden. All Sara wants to do is experiment with makeup and read fashion magazines, but her dad’s conservative interpretation of Islam makes it impossible. Things get even harder when her dad lands himself a job in the Arabian Gulf and moves Sara and her family to a country where the patriarchy rules supreme. In a country where you have to have your father’s permission for everything, every door feels like it is being closed on Sara’s future. Can Sara find her voice again? Will she ever be free?

About the author

Yousra S Imran is an English-Egyptian hybrid who works and lives in West Yorkshire. She has been writing from the moment she learned how to hold a pen and works full time in marketing and events in the education sector. Yousra grew up between the UK and the Middle East and has a BA Hons in International Relations. She is passionate about women’s rights and gender justice. Yousra lives with her husband in Bradford, Yorkshire.

My review

Hijab and Red Lipstick is the debut novel from Yousra Imran. It is a powerful read and will make the reader really think about things.

This is a great story for young adult readers that approaches difficult questions. I loved the writing style and the way it all flowed and with Sara of course still wearing her red lipstick. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished it.

Hijab and Red Lipstick is available on Amazon in both Kindle format or paperback.

Disclaimer – Thank you to Helen at Literally PR for my gifted copy of this book for my honest review.