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Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes from around the World
This illustrated nonfiction anthology features the stories of 13 inspiring hijabi athletes from around the world.
Meet 13 inspiring hijabi athletes who are changing the rules.
Many of these women were the first in their sport to compete while wearing the hijab. Some were up against cultural traditions that didn't allow girls to play sports. And some fought to have institutional anti-hijab rules changed so that they, and Muslim girls after them, would be able to compete.
Discover the stories of Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy, UAE hockey player Fatima Al Ali, Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl and Syrian-American runner Rahaf Khatib, among many others. Game Changers shows the next generation of Muslim girls that they don't have to choose between following their religion and following their dreams.
Meet 13 inspiring hijabi athletes who are changing the rules.
Many of these women were the first in their sport to compete while wearing the hijab. Some were up against cultural traditions that didn't allow girls to play sports. And some fought to have institutional anti-hijab rules changed so that they, and Muslim girls after them, would be able to compete.
Discover the stories of Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy, UAE hockey player Fatima Al Ali, Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl and Syrian-American runner Rahaf Khatib, among many others. Game Changers shows the next generation of Muslim girls that they don't have to choose between following their religion and following their dreams.
80 pages, Hardcover
Published February 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 6, 2025
"Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes from around the World" by Charlene Smith, illustrated by Natalya Tariq, impressed me far more than I expected it to.
I'm quite disillusioned by the usual "Muslim women can do anything" genre that usually fixates on Muslim women doing borderline or outright haraam things, so I started this book with skepticism.
I ended up loving it! This book features Muslim women (specifically hijabis) from around the world, engaged in a wide variety of sports. From hockey to archery, parkour to skateboarding, it was impressive to see all the fields Muslimas have excelled in.
Obviously there is discussion to be had amongst parents and children about what is/isn't totally hijab-appropriate, but I don't feel any qualms about what this book shares.
I love how detailed and thoughtful the backmatter is, especially about why we wear hijab, and the detailed sourcing.
I'm quite disillusioned by the usual "Muslim women can do anything" genre that usually fixates on Muslim women doing borderline or outright haraam things, so I started this book with skepticism.
I ended up loving it! This book features Muslim women (specifically hijabis) from around the world, engaged in a wide variety of sports. From hockey to archery, parkour to skateboarding, it was impressive to see all the fields Muslimas have excelled in.
Obviously there is discussion to be had amongst parents and children about what is/isn't totally hijab-appropriate, but I don't feel any qualms about what this book shares.
I love how detailed and thoughtful the backmatter is, especially about why we wear hijab, and the detailed sourcing.
August 24, 2025
“Profiles 13 inspirational athletes…Written and illustrated by two hijabi, these uplifting profiles set off by cheerful illustrations are sure to spark interest. Great for readers passionate about athletics and hijabi representation.” [Booklist]
July 29, 2024
This 80 page compilation of hijabi athletes from around the world focuses on 13 women that the author interviewed first hand. Featuring athletes, sports and even countries that might be relatively unfamiliar to the targeted middle grade audience, the book will appeal to both boys and girls, Muslims and non Muslims. Many included were the first to play with hijab, or the first female to play in their country, but each journey and experience is unique. Each hijabi athelete and their sport is introduced to the reader over four pages with beautiful artwork, and pulled quotes. A common issue I have with these types of books is wondering how those featured were chosen, and while this book doesn't articulate it clearly, at least it sets some parameters in the forward and introduction, that for me at least, allowed me to appreciate the book that much more. The book ends with four pages of "More Hijabi Athletes" that could have been included, as well as information on perseverance, hijab, modest sportswear, a glossary, resources, index, and acknowledgements. There are real photographs included at he beginning and end of the book of various featured athlete in action.
I can't really review this non fiction book in my normal style, so I will simply say that the writing is clear and easy, at times details seemed overly vague, but to keep the continuity of the tone, and the reader engaged, I understand why specifics perhaps were not included. In the first feature, I wish the infamous photograph would have been shared so the reader could see for themselves what the text was discussing. Overall, this resource to inspire our Muslim girls is much needed and beautifully done. I absolutely love the artwork. LOVE IT. The women are beautiful, strong, and the artwork conveys that for each of the 13 athletes.
The athletes featured:
Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy
UAE hockey player Fatima Al Ali
Basketball player Fitriya Muhamed
Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl
Syrian-American runner Rahaf Khatib
Basketball Player Kiandra Browne
Pakistani weightlifter Kulsoom Abdullah
Parkour Sara Mudallal
Downhill Mountain Bike Racer Sumayyah Green
Iranian Triathlete Shirin Gerami
Kenyan Archer Shehzana Anwar
Wrestler Latifah McBryde
Skateboarder Nadeen Alhamad
I can't really review this non fiction book in my normal style, so I will simply say that the writing is clear and easy, at times details seemed overly vague, but to keep the continuity of the tone, and the reader engaged, I understand why specifics perhaps were not included. In the first feature, I wish the infamous photograph would have been shared so the reader could see for themselves what the text was discussing. Overall, this resource to inspire our Muslim girls is much needed and beautifully done. I absolutely love the artwork. LOVE IT. The women are beautiful, strong, and the artwork conveys that for each of the 13 athletes.
The athletes featured:
Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy
UAE hockey player Fatima Al Ali
Basketball player Fitriya Muhamed
Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl
Syrian-American runner Rahaf Khatib
Basketball Player Kiandra Browne
Pakistani weightlifter Kulsoom Abdullah
Parkour Sara Mudallal
Downhill Mountain Bike Racer Sumayyah Green
Iranian Triathlete Shirin Gerami
Kenyan Archer Shehzana Anwar
Wrestler Latifah McBryde
Skateboarder Nadeen Alhamad
January 27, 2025
GAME CHANGERS: Breaking Barriers, Making History
In this groundbreaking collection, Charlene presents the stories of 13 remarkable hijabi athletes who are redefining the boundaries of sports. These trailblazers didn't just compete—they transformed their sports, becoming the first to wear hijab in competition, challenging cultural restrictions on women in athletics, and successfully overturning institutional regulations that had barred hijabi athletes from participating.
Reading this book filled me with profound admiration. Each athlete's journey reveals extraordinary determination as they excel on the global stage while staying true to their faith. Their presence transcends athletic achievement—as visible Muslim women; they carry the dual responsibility of representing both their nations and their religion. These champions prove themselves not only as fierce competitors but as powerful advocates and inspirational role models, demonstrating that athletic excellence and religious devotion can go hand in hand.
As a mentor to young Muslim girls, I'm especially moved by how these stories will resonate with my students. The book sends a crucial message: you never have to choose between your passions and your beliefs. Charlene has masterfully woven together these powerful testimonies, creating a work that celebrates both athletic achievement and religious commitment.
This compelling read isn't just for Muslim readers or athletes—it's for anyone who believes in breaking barriers and challenging assumptions. Whether as an Eid gift or a back-to-school inspiration, this book will inspire readers of all ages and genders with its messages of perseverance, faith, and triumph.
In this groundbreaking collection, Charlene presents the stories of 13 remarkable hijabi athletes who are redefining the boundaries of sports. These trailblazers didn't just compete—they transformed their sports, becoming the first to wear hijab in competition, challenging cultural restrictions on women in athletics, and successfully overturning institutional regulations that had barred hijabi athletes from participating.
Reading this book filled me with profound admiration. Each athlete's journey reveals extraordinary determination as they excel on the global stage while staying true to their faith. Their presence transcends athletic achievement—as visible Muslim women; they carry the dual responsibility of representing both their nations and their religion. These champions prove themselves not only as fierce competitors but as powerful advocates and inspirational role models, demonstrating that athletic excellence and religious devotion can go hand in hand.
As a mentor to young Muslim girls, I'm especially moved by how these stories will resonate with my students. The book sends a crucial message: you never have to choose between your passions and your beliefs. Charlene has masterfully woven together these powerful testimonies, creating a work that celebrates both athletic achievement and religious commitment.
This compelling read isn't just for Muslim readers or athletes—it's for anyone who believes in breaking barriers and challenging assumptions. Whether as an Eid gift or a back-to-school inspiration, this book will inspire readers of all ages and genders with its messages of perseverance, faith, and triumph.
September 16, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
This collective biography showcases thirteen different young hijabi women from various points in the world who were groundbreakers when it came to competing in sports. There is an amazing variety in the sports included, from the more obscure like beach volleyball and archery to more common ones like basketball and soccer. The table of contents is very clever, with each woman given a "trading card" with her name, sport, and country which she represents. There's an introduction that discusses how the women were chosen, and photographs of many of them, which is somewhat unusual in a collective biography like this, but VERY welcome! Each player gets a portrait and three pages of information that discusses her involvement in the sport, challenges she faced, and successes. The end of the book has some additional information about why some women wear the hijab, and a good glossary. There are even print resources that include Maddox's 2020 graphic novel Running Overload which I had missed but will absolutely buy, since my goal is to get as many middle school girls to run cross country as possible!
The only quibble that I have with this book is that it doesn't give the years of birth for these women, which is helpful to put their progression in sports into context. This is a great choice to show students that athletes come from all manner of different backgrounds, and goes along well with other titles in the 920s like Roberts and Jacobs' 100 Athletes Who Shaped Sports, Buckley's Fearless Firsts, or Allen's Girls Race: Amazing Tales of Women in Sports.
This collective biography showcases thirteen different young hijabi women from various points in the world who were groundbreakers when it came to competing in sports. There is an amazing variety in the sports included, from the more obscure like beach volleyball and archery to more common ones like basketball and soccer. The table of contents is very clever, with each woman given a "trading card" with her name, sport, and country which she represents. There's an introduction that discusses how the women were chosen, and photographs of many of them, which is somewhat unusual in a collective biography like this, but VERY welcome! Each player gets a portrait and three pages of information that discusses her involvement in the sport, challenges she faced, and successes. The end of the book has some additional information about why some women wear the hijab, and a good glossary. There are even print resources that include Maddox's 2020 graphic novel Running Overload which I had missed but will absolutely buy, since my goal is to get as many middle school girls to run cross country as possible!
The only quibble that I have with this book is that it doesn't give the years of birth for these women, which is helpful to put their progression in sports into context. This is a great choice to show students that athletes come from all manner of different backgrounds, and goes along well with other titles in the 920s like Roberts and Jacobs' 100 Athletes Who Shaped Sports, Buckley's Fearless Firsts, or Allen's Girls Race: Amazing Tales of Women in Sports.
October 7, 2024
Game Changers is an inspiring nonfiction anthology that highlights the stories of 13 remarkable hijabi athletes from across the globe. From Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy to Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl, these women broke barriers and changed the narrative around women in sports.
The book introduces readers to a diverse range of sports and athletes, many of whom were the first to compete while wearing a hijab. The inclusion of real photographs of the athletes adds a unique and personal touch, making their journeys even more relatable.
The glossary, resources, and additional information on the hijab and modest sportswear make this a well-rounded and necessary resource for inspiring Muslim girls and anyone passionate about sports and breaking barriers.
The artwork is a standout feature, beautifully capturing the strength and resilience of these athletes. Game Changers is a much-needed celebration of Muslim women following their dreams and standing tall in the face of adversity. Highly recommend it to all readers!
Advance E-Arc provided by publisher.
The book introduces readers to a diverse range of sports and athletes, many of whom were the first to compete while wearing a hijab. The inclusion of real photographs of the athletes adds a unique and personal touch, making their journeys even more relatable.
The glossary, resources, and additional information on the hijab and modest sportswear make this a well-rounded and necessary resource for inspiring Muslim girls and anyone passionate about sports and breaking barriers.
The artwork is a standout feature, beautifully capturing the strength and resilience of these athletes. Game Changers is a much-needed celebration of Muslim women following their dreams and standing tall in the face of adversity. Highly recommend it to all readers!
Advance E-Arc provided by publisher.
December 9, 2025
Loved this biography of Hijabi athletes from so many different sports and countries. Included are sports such as hockey, weight lifting, basketball, skateboarding, archery, beach volleyball, wrestling, and more. Countries include US, Canada, Egypt, Iran, England, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and more. Each biography includes a full page stylized illustration of the featured athlete and a 3 page spread detailing how they got involved in their sport, any challenges they had to overcome, and major accomplishments.
Back matter includes small actual photographs of the athletes, a list of additional hijabi athletes(!), a "never give up" section, a " why do Muslim women wear the hijab?" section, a "modest sportswear" section, a glossary, additional print and online resources, acknowledgements, and an index.
Recommend!
Back matter includes small actual photographs of the athletes, a list of additional hijabi athletes(!), a "never give up" section, a " why do Muslim women wear the hijab?" section, a "modest sportswear" section, a glossary, additional print and online resources, acknowledgements, and an index.
Recommend!
April 2, 2025
On the one hand -- how cool that this book exists! That these women exist! That they are changing the world with their determination and talent. I love that, and I love that there are so many hijabi athletes that the book can't begin to cover them all. That is fabulous. It's also a LOT of details about a lot of different sports, which is wonderful.
On the other hand, I'm pretty uncomfortable with religion at this point, so the devotion expressed doesn't work for me as a reader. I think it will make a huge difference for young women seeing themselves, though, so that's not really a critique, so much as I'm not the intended audience.
On the other hand, I'm pretty uncomfortable with religion at this point, so the devotion expressed doesn't work for me as a reader. I think it will make a huge difference for young women seeing themselves, though, so that's not really a critique, so much as I'm not the intended audience.
October 25, 2025
Inspiring for everyone, but especially young ones who have been told they “can’t” because of their gender. There are so many stories of girls and women who are successful in a variety of sports in this book and it makes me feel proud. I wanted to read about all of the rest of the listed athletes once I finished the book!
October 28, 2024
The book is nicely organized making each story easy to follow. Each athlete's section is short enough that it can be comfortably read in a single sitting even if your schedule is busy, but they are long enough to capture the athletes story in a comprehensive and digestible manner.
May 3, 2025
Amazing story of girls just like me who are so good at sports. Inspiring to Muslim girls around the globe who love sports
November 6, 2025
Inspiring to read about the hurdles defeated by these strong women.
January 14, 2026
Need more books like this!!! Every story was so beautifully done
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews