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Khadijah: Mother of History's Greatest Nation
You have another mother. You ve never seen her. You ve never heard her voice. You ve never perhaps even thought of her as your mother. But she is your mother nonetheless. And if you get to Jannah, your mother will there, waiting to meet you. Her name is Khadijah (RA). She was the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad (S), the first to believe in his message and the first mother of the greatest nation history has ever seen. As you work towards reaching Jannah, and meeting your mother Khadijah, it will certainly help if you did a little preparation beforehand and got to know about her story. This book has been specially crafted to help you do that. You see, most of the stories you ve heard about Khadijah have probably been raw translations from classical sources. While they sound captivating in the original Arabic language, there s quite a lot that s lost when they are translated into English. So rather than sticking with a dry narrative, we decided to get to the core of the stories and tell them in a fluid style that the modern reader is accustomed to today. You ll find that the rich descriptions immerse you within the scenes, the flowing narrative renders a seamless reading experience and since we ve still stuck to historical sources, the story loses nothing of its original iman elevating inspiration. So get to know you mother, give this book a read, inspire yourself for that meeting in Jannah in-sha-Allah!
182 pages, Hardcover
Published February 8, 2016
74 people are currently reading
1158 people want to read
About the author
Fatima Barkatulla
5 books56 followersFatima Barkatulla is a British author, Islamic scholar, and award-winning lecturer based in London.
She has had a rich Islamic education from an early age thanks to her parents. In her teens, she studied Arabic and Islamic studies in Egypt.
She went on to graduate from two Islamic seminaries based in London, with a specialisation in Islamic Jurisprudence.
Fatima is a key contributor to the discourse surrounding Muslim women in the West, contributing to Westminster Faith Debates, documentaries & live shows for BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service, as well as BBC television, Channel 4 and Islam Channel.
She lives in a leafy part of London with her husband and four children and she presents the IlmFeed Podcast.
She has had a rich Islamic education from an early age thanks to her parents. In her teens, she studied Arabic and Islamic studies in Egypt.
She went on to graduate from two Islamic seminaries based in London, with a specialisation in Islamic Jurisprudence.
Fatima is a key contributor to the discourse surrounding Muslim women in the West, contributing to Westminster Faith Debates, documentaries & live shows for BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service, as well as BBC television, Channel 4 and Islam Channel.
She lives in a leafy part of London with her husband and four children and she presents the IlmFeed Podcast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 20, 2021
Where has this book been all my life??????
Ustadha @fatima_barkatulla did an incredible job bringing the story of Umm al-Mu'mineen Khadijah (radhiAllahu 'anha) to life in this creative telling of Khadijah's biography.
Using vibrant language and incorporating small (but important!) details regarding the many individuals who play a role in the seerah, Ustadha Fatima's words immerse readers into the story of Khadijah (ra) like never before. For all of us who grew up reading the painfully dry translations of stories of the Companions, this is a truly refreshing change!
Ngl, I legitimately got choked up reading this book, in the best way; she beautifully illustrates both the highlights and heartbreaks of Khadijah's life, taking readers on an emotional journey.
I highly highly recommend for both personal libraries as well as masjid/ madrasah/ school/ da'wah!
Huge props to @learningroots for producing excellent materials, as always!
4.9 out of 5 🌟
(My only criticism is a few missing commas, a couple extraneous ones, a few words that middle grade readers will struggle to understand, and a couple sentences that needed some tweaking.)
Ustadha @fatima_barkatulla did an incredible job bringing the story of Umm al-Mu'mineen Khadijah (radhiAllahu 'anha) to life in this creative telling of Khadijah's biography.
Using vibrant language and incorporating small (but important!) details regarding the many individuals who play a role in the seerah, Ustadha Fatima's words immerse readers into the story of Khadijah (ra) like never before. For all of us who grew up reading the painfully dry translations of stories of the Companions, this is a truly refreshing change!
Ngl, I legitimately got choked up reading this book, in the best way; she beautifully illustrates both the highlights and heartbreaks of Khadijah's life, taking readers on an emotional journey.
I highly highly recommend for both personal libraries as well as masjid/ madrasah/ school/ da'wah!
Huge props to @learningroots for producing excellent materials, as always!
4.9 out of 5 🌟
(My only criticism is a few missing commas, a couple extraneous ones, a few words that middle grade readers will struggle to understand, and a couple sentences that needed some tweaking.)
April 2, 2024
The story of our prophet Muhammad SAW from Khadijah’s point of view ❤️❤️
May 7, 2017
Easy to understand and good quality
December 24, 2021
---This book was one of the reads for my Muslim Book Club
I first came across this scholar's content, when my sister recommended the Aisha r.a. series, she has on YouTube. That was incredible, so when I saw that she wrote a book on Khadija r.a I knew I had to read it. I love supporting the author and am glad a bunch of us from the book club were able to contribute to her efforts. I hope to see more content from her, teaching us about the female role models of Islam. I loved how she adds a feminine touch to these stories which is rare to find when the same content is taught by a male scholar, and that was refreshing and very relatable for me.
I loved exploring the life of Khadijah r.a narrated in this historical fiction manner. This is written for a fairly younger audience, but I as an almost 30 year old adult really enjoyed reading it. I did often wonder which parts of the book were, as the author stated herself a part of the literary license. Like for example, the physical descriptions of Abu Jahl, the parts about Khadija r.a thought process prior to getting married, were they close to the truth or just a guess on what could have been?
Having said that, I was a big fan of the writing. The atmospheric setting was beautiful and made me want to go back in time and be in the presence of Rasool saw and Khadijah r.a. I especially loved how they were true examples of what Islam says about gender roles. There were no insecurities between them about who lived where in whose house, who did what chores, it was a shared responsibility where one did things for the other out of pure love and for the sake of Allah.
We need more content like this, especially for younger girls. I look forward to the time when my kids (regardless of their gender), who don't exist yet, will one day inshaAllah read this book.
I first came across this scholar's content, when my sister recommended the Aisha r.a. series, she has on YouTube. That was incredible, so when I saw that she wrote a book on Khadija r.a I knew I had to read it. I love supporting the author and am glad a bunch of us from the book club were able to contribute to her efforts. I hope to see more content from her, teaching us about the female role models of Islam. I loved how she adds a feminine touch to these stories which is rare to find when the same content is taught by a male scholar, and that was refreshing and very relatable for me.
I loved exploring the life of Khadijah r.a narrated in this historical fiction manner. This is written for a fairly younger audience, but I as an almost 30 year old adult really enjoyed reading it. I did often wonder which parts of the book were, as the author stated herself a part of the literary license. Like for example, the physical descriptions of Abu Jahl, the parts about Khadija r.a thought process prior to getting married, were they close to the truth or just a guess on what could have been?
Having said that, I was a big fan of the writing. The atmospheric setting was beautiful and made me want to go back in time and be in the presence of Rasool saw and Khadijah r.a. I especially loved how they were true examples of what Islam says about gender roles. There were no insecurities between them about who lived where in whose house, who did what chores, it was a shared responsibility where one did things for the other out of pure love and for the sake of Allah.
We need more content like this, especially for younger girls. I look forward to the time when my kids (regardless of their gender), who don't exist yet, will one day inshaAllah read this book.
June 25, 2018
I love the writing style so much. It feels like reading such a good novel instead of formal history book. As for the content, of course I love it too! It’s about Khadijah RA, the best woman on earth, how can I not love it 💕
May 1, 2019
I've learned so much about prophet Muhammad (pbh).
June 7, 2024
It is a beautiful book about the two most beautiful people in human history. Fatima's choice of words, flow in her writing, and way she presents the Seerah of the Prophet (s) and his time with our mother, Khadijah, are impeccable. May Allah accept this effort from Fatimah and give her the closeness of Khadijah (r) in Akhirah.
December 20, 2018
Absolutely loved it. First impressions were it's a child's book but I loved it. Every sentence was sculpted and written perfectly. Reading again.
February 23, 2023
i read this in one sitting and it was 🤌🏻😍
may Allah be pleased with our mother, i have so much love for her as it is and reading about her specifically increased my love tenfold. i already knew most of what the book told but i wasn’t aware lady khadija RA had two sons from her previous marriages and of the incident at the pagan festival for ladies before her marriage to the Prophet ﷺ
i gave this book to my 12 year old brother and he’s found it easy to read so it’s very good for young children and/or those who have a hard time reading complex non fiction books.
may Allah be pleased with our mother, i have so much love for her as it is and reading about her specifically increased my love tenfold. i already knew most of what the book told but i wasn’t aware lady khadija RA had two sons from her previous marriages and of the incident at the pagan festival for ladies before her marriage to the Prophet ﷺ
i gave this book to my 12 year old brother and he’s found it easy to read so it’s very good for young children and/or those who have a hard time reading complex non fiction books.
February 21, 2022
Very easy to read book in a novel format.
Pitched at a younger audience, but can be read by adults too.
Nice to see the seerah presented from the point of Khadija RA.
The style of writing reminds me of 'The Simple Seerah' and 'Falling in love with Muhammad SAW'.
A recommended quick read.
Pitched at a younger audience, but can be read by adults too.
Nice to see the seerah presented from the point of Khadija RA.
The style of writing reminds me of 'The Simple Seerah' and 'Falling in love with Muhammad SAW'.
A recommended quick read.
May 16, 2022
Didn't realise it was a young adult book when I bought it, but gave it a go. Was looking for a woman's perspective on the Seerah. It is well written and engaging. I also learnt some names which I always get confused with in more in depth (adult) books. 😀
August 8, 2022
Bless the author Fatima Barkatulla for bringing the most perfect illustrated book ever. Lovved everything about this book and the fact that there were so many new information regarding Khadijah RA and the life she lived 💯 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 28, 2020
This book has won over my heart. I cannot explain the beauty of it. A beautiful love story of our beloved prophet (pbuh) and hazrat Khadijah (ra), its written like a lovely tale of true love but the most unique and realest and purest form of love ever created. It was so peaceful and refreshing for the soul.
I am so happy and grateful for this book
I am so happy and grateful for this book
January 5, 2019
Received this book of my namesake from my mother after the passing of my father and it brought me great comfort as my father was my guide and teacher in theology. Inshallah, I hope to be able to live up to her goodness.
A simple and wonderful retelling of Khadijah's journey to becoming the first Muslim. What an inspiration of her patience, wisdom, and unwavering faith and loyalty.
A simple and wonderful retelling of Khadijah's journey to becoming the first Muslim. What an inspiration of her patience, wisdom, and unwavering faith and loyalty.
November 15, 2018
excellent easy read to learn accurate knowledge of islam
January 20, 2019
Very good book I will keep for my daughter to read.
December 12, 2021
The book follows the life of Khadija (RA) as she learns about the Prophet (pbuh), meets him, admired his trade, proposes to him, marries him and bears his children, comforts him when he reaches Prophethood, and is patient during the three year boycott on them until which point she died. (may Allah be pleased with her)
I would personally categorize the book as split into two parts- one part pre-revelation and one part after. The pre-revelation part seemed to be written with more imagination of what could have been possible, along with some Islamic details we know. The post-revelation part seemed more in line with what we know from the seerah. It moved me so much to read how amazing Khadija (RA) was and how much she was missed by the Prophet (pbuh) after her death.
The story does not only speak of Khadija (RA) but it spoke of a lot of seerah incidents that happened around her life time. Full of information and a great learning resource!!
It is written in an interesting style, which I do want to point out: 3rd person present. So this means a narrator speaking as if they are witnessing the events as they happen. I did want to point this out for those that might find it uncomfortable to read Islamic Seerah history stories that are part imagination with quotes and explanations of emotions/situations.
Overall, I did feel very moved by the end of it to love Khadija (RA) even more. The book’s writing style is simple and can be understood easily by young teens. The book is definitely a wealth of information, especially for those are just starting to learn Islamic Seerah and history.
I can definitely see this being used and read in Islamic schools/halaqahs! A beautiful book about a beautiful woman, may Allah be pleased with her❤️
I would personally categorize the book as split into two parts- one part pre-revelation and one part after. The pre-revelation part seemed to be written with more imagination of what could have been possible, along with some Islamic details we know. The post-revelation part seemed more in line with what we know from the seerah. It moved me so much to read how amazing Khadija (RA) was and how much she was missed by the Prophet (pbuh) after her death.
The story does not only speak of Khadija (RA) but it spoke of a lot of seerah incidents that happened around her life time. Full of information and a great learning resource!!
It is written in an interesting style, which I do want to point out: 3rd person present. So this means a narrator speaking as if they are witnessing the events as they happen. I did want to point this out for those that might find it uncomfortable to read Islamic Seerah history stories that are part imagination with quotes and explanations of emotions/situations.
Overall, I did feel very moved by the end of it to love Khadija (RA) even more. The book’s writing style is simple and can be understood easily by young teens. The book is definitely a wealth of information, especially for those are just starting to learn Islamic Seerah and history.
I can definitely see this being used and read in Islamic schools/halaqahs! A beautiful book about a beautiful woman, may Allah be pleased with her❤️
January 21, 2021
I bought this as part of our book club read for this month. This book tells us about the life of our blessed mother, Khadijah RA, from the few years before her marriage to our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW, until her passing. It is written in the form of a story narrative, complete with dialogues and descriptions of Makkah of that time.
The way the author described Makkah is different from what I've always imagined. I have always imagined that the city is sparsely populated, with a small marketplace. Of course, it is purely my assumptions; I have never really read any descriptions about what Makkah might have looked like 14 centuries ago.
Unlike my supposition Makkah depicted in this book is a bustling city with pilgrims from all over Arabia (and perhaps beyond), and a lively marketplace. Of course, Allah knows best. Perhaps I should look for a book of history of Makkah, that could describe what the city would have looked like back then.
Back to the book.
The book was printed in large fonts and easy language, which I think is suitable for tweens and above. I finished this book within a day, perhaps because of the large fonts, or maybe because the stories are familiar and this is like a revision.
The way the author described Makkah is different from what I've always imagined. I have always imagined that the city is sparsely populated, with a small marketplace. Of course, it is purely my assumptions; I have never really read any descriptions about what Makkah might have looked like 14 centuries ago.
Unlike my supposition Makkah depicted in this book is a bustling city with pilgrims from all over Arabia (and perhaps beyond), and a lively marketplace. Of course, Allah knows best. Perhaps I should look for a book of history of Makkah, that could describe what the city would have looked like back then.
Back to the book.
The book was printed in large fonts and easy language, which I think is suitable for tweens and above. I finished this book within a day, perhaps because of the large fonts, or maybe because the stories are familiar and this is like a revision.
July 15, 2025
I picked up Khadijah: Mother of History’s Greatest Nation by Fatima Barkatulla after listening to Dr Omar Suleiman’s episode Khadijah (RA): His First Love, Our First Mother on The Firsts series, and I’ve carried her story in my heart ever since.
Learning about her life before Prophethood, the home she built with the Prophet ﷺ, the love they shared, and the way she supported him ﷺ with unwavering faith left me both inspired and comforted.
Their family life, filled with love, children, and others like Zayd ibn Haritha (RA) and Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), was full of warmth and quiet strength. Her presence gave the Prophet ﷺ the space to rest, rise, and lead.
Even years after she passed, the Prophet ﷺ would still weep remembering her. When he saw her necklace many years later, he was overcome with emotion. He would send gifts to her friends out of loyalty to her memory. Her name alone would bring tears to his eyes. That says everything about the depth of their love.
Khadijah (RA) wasn’t just a wife. She was the first believer, the first support, and the mother of this Ummah. We should learn about her — not only to honour her, but to understand the foundation our faith was built on.
Learning about her life before Prophethood, the home she built with the Prophet ﷺ, the love they shared, and the way she supported him ﷺ with unwavering faith left me both inspired and comforted.
Their family life, filled with love, children, and others like Zayd ibn Haritha (RA) and Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), was full of warmth and quiet strength. Her presence gave the Prophet ﷺ the space to rest, rise, and lead.
Even years after she passed, the Prophet ﷺ would still weep remembering her. When he saw her necklace many years later, he was overcome with emotion. He would send gifts to her friends out of loyalty to her memory. Her name alone would bring tears to his eyes. That says everything about the depth of their love.
Khadijah (RA) wasn’t just a wife. She was the first believer, the first support, and the mother of this Ummah. We should learn about her — not only to honour her, but to understand the foundation our faith was built on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2022
THIS BOOK!!!!!!!! I really really really urge every muslim to read this incredible book. Unfortunately growing up we never learned a lot about Khadijah Ra. and reading this book has opened my eyes about her differently. Her Character is so beautiful and it makes me wonder how lucky the people were that lived during her time. Not only was she a business woman, but she was the wife of the greatest human ever. What an important and inspiring woman. The Chapters being named exactly after what stage in life they were in made me feel closer to the story. Towards the end of the book where they mentioned that Khadijah ra. was dying it broke my heart even though i knew she did pass away, reading it in detail and reading how the Prophet SAW felt about it broke my heart.
The Story of Khadijah is definitely a book that needs to be on everyone’s book shelves. Even for non Muslims, i believe the book has many many valuable lessons and you get to experience history in a different way and form. As a story, rather than just facts you need to learn for an exam. I wish i could read the book all over again. I felt a lot of emotions during it.
The Story of Khadijah is definitely a book that needs to be on everyone’s book shelves. Even for non Muslims, i believe the book has many many valuable lessons and you get to experience history in a different way and form. As a story, rather than just facts you need to learn for an exam. I wish i could read the book all over again. I felt a lot of emotions during it.
May 7, 2019
Since it’s the month of Ramadan, I like to focus more on my religion and read books solely to learn more about Islam. I bought this book during my trip in the UK.
It’s a book meant for younger learners who don’t know much about the life of our prophet. In that aspect, it’s an amazing book that deals with the life of our prophet (s.a.w.) until the time that Khadidja (r.anha) lived.
What I did expect more was the inclusion of the life of Khadidja (r.anha), since the book was about supposed to be about her, but it was more about our beloved prophet Mohammad. (S.a.w)
This would be an amazing Eid gift for anyone who would want to learn more about the history of Islam.
It’s a book meant for younger learners who don’t know much about the life of our prophet. In that aspect, it’s an amazing book that deals with the life of our prophet (s.a.w.) until the time that Khadidja (r.anha) lived.
What I did expect more was the inclusion of the life of Khadidja (r.anha), since the book was about supposed to be about her, but it was more about our beloved prophet Mohammad. (S.a.w)
This would be an amazing Eid gift for anyone who would want to learn more about the history of Islam.
October 23, 2021
Very nicely written brings you right into the tale evocatively.
However its still simple and very fast read at about an hour/½ for me so I really dont see the need for the book to be as thick as it is 😜
Also I expected a lot more of Khadijahs life. It definitely added detail and brought to life the story of the Prophet PBUH beautifully but since this is after all the tale of Khadijah RA it didn't quite live up to that namesake.
Id say younger readers would also be able to enjoy because of its simple style.
Still would highly recommend as its one of the nicest books Ive read regarding Islamic history.
However its still simple and very fast read at about an hour/½ for me so I really dont see the need for the book to be as thick as it is 😜
Also I expected a lot more of Khadijahs life. It definitely added detail and brought to life the story of the Prophet PBUH beautifully but since this is after all the tale of Khadijah RA it didn't quite live up to that namesake.
Id say younger readers would also be able to enjoy because of its simple style.
Still would highly recommend as its one of the nicest books Ive read regarding Islamic history.
January 5, 2022
10/10 an amazing read!
A perfect way to learn about such an amazing women and one of the best women in Islamic History in a book that is easy to read and engaging . The book is perfect for young readers who want to learn more about how Islam started and to get to know the Prophet's (peace and blessings upon him) wife Khadijah better. I am so happy that books like this, that are easy to read, are being produced. I recommend this book for 8-13 year-old's, and girls especially who should definingly be taught more about such a remarkable woman like Khadijah!
A perfect way to learn about such an amazing women and one of the best women in Islamic History in a book that is easy to read and engaging . The book is perfect for young readers who want to learn more about how Islam started and to get to know the Prophet's (peace and blessings upon him) wife Khadijah better. I am so happy that books like this, that are easy to read, are being produced. I recommend this book for 8-13 year-old's, and girls especially who should definingly be taught more about such a remarkable woman like Khadijah!
October 26, 2019
Easy to read and digest. A very nice topic to bring attention to the Mother of the believers. However towards the end of the book I remembered this book was about Syedna Khadijah, yet it did feel a bit like the Seerah of the Habib. However i guess this would be the case as Syedna whole life revolved around the Habib but would have appreciated some more insight into Syedna's personal life. Very good book nevertheless.
April 29, 2021
I read this book with my younger siblings this Ramadan. We enjoyed how it was straightforward, while also transporting us to the time of Khadijah’s life. Granted, we wished there was more information about her life, especially after she met the Prophet, but this book was written for a younger audience. Overall, it was a lovely read and moved us to tears at some parts as we hoped to become closer to this important and beloved person.
May 1, 2022
A lovely book that neatly summarizes Khadija’s (R.A) life. The book was written in chronological order with narrative, like a storybook. I enjoyed how the author pieced together history with compelling transitions. Although, I would have liked some more details as I felt the chapters weaved by quickly. This is a fantastic book for those who are starting to read.
November 26, 2017
I was hoping to get to know more about Sayyidah Khatijah RA but ended up learning more about Rasulullah SAW instead. So I would say that I’m a little disappointed. But I enjoyed reading about Rasulullah SAW so 3 stars.
February 17, 2022
Big text used, chapters short and sweet.
Detail life of Khadijah RA presented in a novel format.
I manage to complete this book within 2 days.
I know the author is writing a book on Ayesha RA, I hope the author carries on with the other wives of the Prophet Muhammad SAW.
Detail life of Khadijah RA presented in a novel format.
I manage to complete this book within 2 days.
I know the author is writing a book on Ayesha RA, I hope the author carries on with the other wives of the Prophet Muhammad SAW.
February 14, 2024
I have read many Islamic children's books and this would be my top read. As the author brings Islamic historical figures to real life and allows the readers to connect and enjoy the book's narrative, it educates the reader with authentic Islamic history.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews