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The Crowning Venture: Inspiration from Women Who Have Memorized the Quran
If you’ve ever sighed wistfully upon hearing of someone memorizing the Quran, wishing it was something you could do, too, then prepare to replace that wistfulness with determination! Filled with inspirational stories for your heart and memorization techniques for your mind, The Crowning Venture reminds us that memorizing the Quran is not an achievement to be conquered, it’s a journey to savor. A journey YOU can make.
156 pages, Paperback
Published May 17, 2018
72 people are currently reading
928 people want to read
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July 16, 2018
Have you ever considered memorizing the Quran, even if you only entertained the thought for a fraction of a second way in the back of your mind? If so, The Crowning Venture by Saadia Mian is a must-read. Rather than try to convince anyone that they need to undertake a Quran memorization journey, this book shows how other women have done it and how empowering it can be. This book combines relatable stories with tips, and discredits negative ideas about women memorizing the Quran.
Mian begins with her own story of how she became a hafiza. Like many of the other women in her book, it is not something that she ever thought she would do. She also shares the stories of twelve women from different walks of life: how they made the decision to pursue memorization and how they went about the work of actually memorizing. The tips, pointers, and advice in this section were as varied as the women themselves. The methods include things like recording yourself, keeping track of your progress, and annotating the mushaf.
As someone who has been there herself and spoken with many women about their journeys, Mian has a keen understanding of the ideas and thought processes that keep women from memorizing the Quran. She tears down the idea that women needn’t memorize the Quran because they won’t lead taraweeh or that they shouldn’t memorize it because they’ll fall behind in review while on their periods. In addition to these external negative thoughts, she also tackles the internal negative thoughts that women who consider memorizing the Quran contend with. For example, she talks about how women frequently seek out perfection and are more likely than men to avoid trying something if they doubt their ability to achieve perfection. She also talks about how many women have difficulty owning their successes, and instead feel sheepish or embarrassed about an accomplishment that they should feel proud of. Another issue she tackles is the fear that many women have that if they memorize the Quran, they will be perceived as more religious than they are.
Also included are some stories of women who didn’t memorize the Quran, a chapter that includes thirty-two etiquettes of proper recitation of the Quran, and a chapter called “Roadmap.” The roadmap includes all of the ingredients that you need to memorize the Quran, including things like patience and taqwa, as well as pro advice like “tie up knowledge with writing” and “choose one mushaf style.”
My favorite takeaway from this book is that memorizing the Quran is not an all-or-nothing endeavor. It’s about building and maintaining a relationship with the word of Allah.
Mian begins with her own story of how she became a hafiza. Like many of the other women in her book, it is not something that she ever thought she would do. She also shares the stories of twelve women from different walks of life: how they made the decision to pursue memorization and how they went about the work of actually memorizing. The tips, pointers, and advice in this section were as varied as the women themselves. The methods include things like recording yourself, keeping track of your progress, and annotating the mushaf.
As someone who has been there herself and spoken with many women about their journeys, Mian has a keen understanding of the ideas and thought processes that keep women from memorizing the Quran. She tears down the idea that women needn’t memorize the Quran because they won’t lead taraweeh or that they shouldn’t memorize it because they’ll fall behind in review while on their periods. In addition to these external negative thoughts, she also tackles the internal negative thoughts that women who consider memorizing the Quran contend with. For example, she talks about how women frequently seek out perfection and are more likely than men to avoid trying something if they doubt their ability to achieve perfection. She also talks about how many women have difficulty owning their successes, and instead feel sheepish or embarrassed about an accomplishment that they should feel proud of. Another issue she tackles is the fear that many women have that if they memorize the Quran, they will be perceived as more religious than they are.
Also included are some stories of women who didn’t memorize the Quran, a chapter that includes thirty-two etiquettes of proper recitation of the Quran, and a chapter called “Roadmap.” The roadmap includes all of the ingredients that you need to memorize the Quran, including things like patience and taqwa, as well as pro advice like “tie up knowledge with writing” and “choose one mushaf style.”
My favorite takeaway from this book is that memorizing the Quran is not an all-or-nothing endeavor. It’s about building and maintaining a relationship with the word of Allah.
November 26, 2018
This is the fourth book I've come across in the last couple of years that captures some of the beauty of the Quran memorisation journey (the more the merrier!). The book shares the stories of present-day women living in the West who have managed to memorise the Quran; some who have done so earlier in their life and some who have done so later. The book mixes the stories of these women nicely with memorisation tips and it makes a good effort at dispelling a number of myths that prevent many people, women especially, from memorising the Quran. I really hope more people stumble across this book and we start to see a concerted effort in our communities towards getting more girls memorising & engaging with the Quran.
November 3, 2020
i’m in awe at how inspiring these women are & maybe inshaa Allah one day, i will get to understand their journey & experiences. 🥺
July 10, 2021
This book has such an exceptionally beautiful premise, that made me instantly gravitate towards it. A Muslim’s endeavour to commit the entire Qur’an to memory is one that is not only incredibly important and hold great spiritual weight in Islam, but is one that I particularly have a personal connection to, as alhamdullilah (all thanks and praises be to God) I have memorised a few chapters of the Qur’an myself and hope to continue to do so. Therefore, I was excited to see what this book had to offer in possibly easing the journey in becoming a hafiza (a Muslim woman who has memorised the entire Quran) and what it had to say especially about a Muslim woman’s journey with the Qur’an.
The author immediately starts with introducing and explaining her journey with the Qur’an – how unexpectedly it came, and how it turned into a prolonged period of intense studying in Syria (from the USA). The writing style is easy to read, and it was really interesting how in Syria they seemed to memorise the Qur’an differently to what I was familiar with, and that there is such a thing as going through and memorising the Qur’an “once” page by page and not looking back, whereas the method that I have always heard of was memorising and moving on whilst continuously revising and perfecting your memory of what you have already learned.
It was so inspirational to read all the different stories that the different women that the author interviewed had and all their different journeys in memorising the Qur’an. It was very motivating to see that there can be so many different paths to memorising the Qur’an as a Muslim woman and it was beautiful to see the determination exhibited by these women of all ages and backgrounds and the sacrifices they made for the Qur’an.
The practical tips included after each story was so helpful – my only criticism may be that that led to quite a bit of repetition, but it was not bothersome to read and was goof for emphasis. The practical tips at the end were especially useful.
I really appreciate how the author takes care not to glamorise the process of memorising the Qur’an, and makes it as realistic as possible, especially by including “stories that weren’t” – stories of women who were unsuccessful in memorising the Qur’an despite their desire to, and explaining why they were unable to and what held them back. All in all, it was emphasised throughout the book from different women that the process of memorising the Qur’an is a lifelong journey.
I would highly recommend this for every Muslimah out there – it really shows how it is possible for anyone to embark upon this lifelong journey with the Qur’an once they put their mind to it!
The author immediately starts with introducing and explaining her journey with the Qur’an – how unexpectedly it came, and how it turned into a prolonged period of intense studying in Syria (from the USA). The writing style is easy to read, and it was really interesting how in Syria they seemed to memorise the Qur’an differently to what I was familiar with, and that there is such a thing as going through and memorising the Qur’an “once” page by page and not looking back, whereas the method that I have always heard of was memorising and moving on whilst continuously revising and perfecting your memory of what you have already learned.
It was so inspirational to read all the different stories that the different women that the author interviewed had and all their different journeys in memorising the Qur’an. It was very motivating to see that there can be so many different paths to memorising the Qur’an as a Muslim woman and it was beautiful to see the determination exhibited by these women of all ages and backgrounds and the sacrifices they made for the Qur’an.
The practical tips included after each story was so helpful – my only criticism may be that that led to quite a bit of repetition, but it was not bothersome to read and was goof for emphasis. The practical tips at the end were especially useful.
I really appreciate how the author takes care not to glamorise the process of memorising the Qur’an, and makes it as realistic as possible, especially by including “stories that weren’t” – stories of women who were unsuccessful in memorising the Qur’an despite their desire to, and explaining why they were unable to and what held them back. All in all, it was emphasised throughout the book from different women that the process of memorising the Qur’an is a lifelong journey.
I would highly recommend this for every Muslimah out there – it really shows how it is possible for anyone to embark upon this lifelong journey with the Qur’an once they put their mind to it!
May 21, 2020
Such a great inspirational book 🙏🏻✨
April 13, 2019
It makes you want to go on your own crowning venture.
I'm inspired and I'm acting upon it. I already have a plan.
Let's do this!
BISMILLAH
I'm inspired and I'm acting upon it. I already have a plan.
Let's do this!
BISMILLAH
March 14, 2023
There isn't any better word to describe it other than Inspiring .
Al hamdoulilah I came across this book :)
Al hamdoulilah I came across this book :)
February 9, 2022
I’m in awe reading all the stories of each women and their journey to memorise the Quran. I love that the author, as a hafiza herself highlights the struggles women go through when they intended to embark on this path. To put it simply, the Crowning Venture reminds us that memorising the Quran is not an achievement to be conquered, it’s a journey to savor. A journey anyone can make with the right intentions and determination.
Here’s to putting sincere intentions memorising longer surahs, aamiin :)
Here’s to putting sincere intentions memorising longer surahs, aamiin :)
December 29, 2020
Beautifully inspirational! Real stories by real women who have memorized the Quran. The narratives in the story highlighted how Muslim women can venture onto a path that is usually catered towards men or very pious/religious people who we assume don't have other responsibilities. Relatable, engaging, and insightful. May God elevate these women and the author to amazing heights in both worlds and make all their endeavors successful.
October 8, 2025
“Be a story that was. Start today” such beautiful stories of those in “crowns”. Truly motivating.
October 5, 2023
The moment I learned this book was about hafizat sharing their journey of memorizing quran with us, I immediately planned on reading it,I was expecting this book to be of teenage/pre teens girls(the common age for hifz) sharing their stories,But to my shock I was reading about Hafizat sharing their stories from different fields of life, from different ages, from different backgrounds, married with kids and careers, embarking this journey.
This book presenting to me at this time(let's say low spiritual state) is a proof of his(swt) mercy to me, how lost I would have been if not for his mercy, reminded me again the etiquette of reading quran, reminded me the prerequisite for the Quran to enter into the hearts
It turned out to be personally touching in more than one way, I expected to love it so much, because of the love towards Quran, but what was shocking from the first page was the author herself, reading about her brought immense pride, she is an endocrinologist, as a struggling dr myself this provided me with comfort and indescribable joy, I don't really know any female doctors who serve their time and effort for the book of Allah(swt), reading about her provided me with a new zeal, like I'm not being unrealistic,like it is possible for me too, to have the Quran beat with my heart along side this huge degree
Every journey had such an impact on me in its own way, I loved the description of their experiences, my heart ached to feel what they feel the sweetness,the pain, the tawba, the dua's when they get stuck, I loved it so much, the way the memorizing brought them closer to Allah(swt)
I pray to Allah(swt), to accept the efforts of author, make her succeed in both the worlds, I'm grateful to her for bringing these amazing stories to us and giving me this new sweet aching dream, May Allah(swt) provide us with enough strength and will to live on our intentions
I recommend women to read this book, regardless of what opinion they hold of hifz(scared/always wanted to but couldn't/not a positive image due to whatever reason) this book not only discusses all of that, but also,gives an immense urge to read the quran and develop a relationship with it
This book presenting to me at this time(let's say low spiritual state) is a proof of his(swt) mercy to me, how lost I would have been if not for his mercy, reminded me again the etiquette of reading quran, reminded me the prerequisite for the Quran to enter into the hearts
It turned out to be personally touching in more than one way, I expected to love it so much, because of the love towards Quran, but what was shocking from the first page was the author herself, reading about her brought immense pride, she is an endocrinologist, as a struggling dr myself this provided me with comfort and indescribable joy, I don't really know any female doctors who serve their time and effort for the book of Allah(swt), reading about her provided me with a new zeal, like I'm not being unrealistic,like it is possible for me too, to have the Quran beat with my heart along side this huge degree
Every journey had such an impact on me in its own way, I loved the description of their experiences, my heart ached to feel what they feel the sweetness,the pain, the tawba, the dua's when they get stuck, I loved it so much, the way the memorizing brought them closer to Allah(swt)
I pray to Allah(swt), to accept the efforts of author, make her succeed in both the worlds, I'm grateful to her for bringing these amazing stories to us and giving me this new sweet aching dream, May Allah(swt) provide us with enough strength and will to live on our intentions
I recommend women to read this book, regardless of what opinion they hold of hifz(scared/always wanted to but couldn't/not a positive image due to whatever reason) this book not only discusses all of that, but also,gives an immense urge to read the quran and develop a relationship with it
November 3, 2018
Just the book I needed, but I didn't know that until I read it (within one day)! MashaAllah.
Points about "The Crowning Venture" that I particularly appreciate:
- Very well-written and well-edited: straightforward, concise, referenced, and even with bullet-point summaries in the case studies.
- Such a positive, balanced and encouraging tone throughout.
- Good variety in the case studies: inshaAllah all women will be able to identify / relate to at least one of the interviewees.
- Full of tips, tips, tips!
May Allah reward the author and all those who were involved in this book. It's a gem!
Points about "The Crowning Venture" that I particularly appreciate:
- Very well-written and well-edited: straightforward, concise, referenced, and even with bullet-point summaries in the case studies.
- Such a positive, balanced and encouraging tone throughout.
- Good variety in the case studies: inshaAllah all women will be able to identify / relate to at least one of the interviewees.
- Full of tips, tips, tips!
May Allah reward the author and all those who were involved in this book. It's a gem!
March 16, 2021
Alhamdulillah. A book I will have to come back to again and again because of its extremely useful advice and tips.
Its stressed in the book how integral the Qur'an is to a Muslim/ah's life; that the Qur'an is essentially a lifeline for us all which a lot of us probably already know but all the same can still appreciate when reading this book the repeated emphasis of the Qur'an's importance through the Muslimahs' different personal accounts of its memorisation.
May Allah Swt reward the author and women who shared their personal ongoing journeys with her abundantly.
Its stressed in the book how integral the Qur'an is to a Muslim/ah's life; that the Qur'an is essentially a lifeline for us all which a lot of us probably already know but all the same can still appreciate when reading this book the repeated emphasis of the Qur'an's importance through the Muslimahs' different personal accounts of its memorisation.
May Allah Swt reward the author and women who shared their personal ongoing journeys with her abundantly.
December 28, 2022
Jarang dapat kita baca pengalaman para hafizah (perempuan) yang diketengahkan, sama ada pengalaman, cabaran, kaedah dan penyesalan (jika ada).
Latar buku ini bukan di Malaysia, justeru amat menarik untuk melihat kelompok minoriti berusaha menghafaz Quran atas kesedaran sendiri. Ada dari kalangan saudara baru, tidak kurang pula memang secara lahirnya Islam; datang dengan sebab berbeza-beza tetapi tujuannya tetap sama - iaitu menghafaz Quran.
Dalam usaha mereka itu terbitlah pertanyaan mengapa harus menghafaz yang nanti akhirnya dilupakan. Atas soalan ini penulis mengeluarkan pandangannya serta menitipkan pengalaman para hafizah yang berjaya menghafaz, tidak berjaya menghafaz atau sudah menghafaz tetapi telah tercicir dari amalan. Mereka ikhlas berkongsi cerita meskipun berhadapan dengan pandangan sinis pihak tertentu yang mempersoalkan tujuan mereka menghafaz yang sekadar menghafaz. Tetapi mereka tidak menghiraukan, terus dengan usaha meskipun ada yang telah terhenti disebabkan cabaran kehidupan. Namun Quran tetap dalam ingatan mereka.
Latar buku ini bukan di Malaysia, justeru amat menarik untuk melihat kelompok minoriti berusaha menghafaz Quran atas kesedaran sendiri. Ada dari kalangan saudara baru, tidak kurang pula memang secara lahirnya Islam; datang dengan sebab berbeza-beza tetapi tujuannya tetap sama - iaitu menghafaz Quran.
Dalam usaha mereka itu terbitlah pertanyaan mengapa harus menghafaz yang nanti akhirnya dilupakan. Atas soalan ini penulis mengeluarkan pandangannya serta menitipkan pengalaman para hafizah yang berjaya menghafaz, tidak berjaya menghafaz atau sudah menghafaz tetapi telah tercicir dari amalan. Mereka ikhlas berkongsi cerita meskipun berhadapan dengan pandangan sinis pihak tertentu yang mempersoalkan tujuan mereka menghafaz yang sekadar menghafaz. Tetapi mereka tidak menghiraukan, terus dengan usaha meskipun ada yang telah terhenti disebabkan cabaran kehidupan. Namun Quran tetap dalam ingatan mereka.
July 27, 2019
Beautiful written and very inspiring. May God enable us to be people of Quran.
November 15, 2024
One of the best books I’ve ever read. I’m a hafiza from Syria, and I got my Izaja in memorisation two years ago now, and have since moved to live in a Western country.
I currently work in a mosque/school that has a mostly Pakistani population, and I’ve come to observe their culture surrounding the Quran. This made this book resonate with me even more, as I am now familiar with both the Syrian and Pakistani methods, and the author has an opposite experience to mine (having been raised in the Pakistani way then living in Syria to learn the Syrian way).
Reading about my own country from the eyes of an outsider, especially one who has had such a positive experience, was incredible. My own journey with the Quran has been the light of my life, and I knew exactly what the author talked about when she described the teachers, the Jazaria poem, the eventual test by a Sheikh, and everything else. She painted a beautiful and accurate picture, one that even as a Syrian hafiza I couldn’t have described better myself.
This book affects people differently. The woman who lent it to me was a British convert who described it as a book about “women who memorised the Quran and the common excuses from those who didn’t “. This is the second half of the book, and while it is probably the part that the author herself would like us to focus on, my favourite part was the author’s own life story and experience.
I learned to no longer shy away from telling people I memorised the Quran, even though I used to feel like I was bragging. But this book showed me just how much women role models are needed. There are so few hafizat in the world! I experimented by asking my female teenage class if they knew any woman who memorised the Quran, and they hadn’t even heard of one! I immediately told them about myself and my experience, and encouraged them to begin their journey, while also recommending this book.
Thank you sister, for one of the best reads of my life. I will be sure to recommend it to others, and hopefully the number of hafizat in the world will increase.
I currently work in a mosque/school that has a mostly Pakistani population, and I’ve come to observe their culture surrounding the Quran. This made this book resonate with me even more, as I am now familiar with both the Syrian and Pakistani methods, and the author has an opposite experience to mine (having been raised in the Pakistani way then living in Syria to learn the Syrian way).
Reading about my own country from the eyes of an outsider, especially one who has had such a positive experience, was incredible. My own journey with the Quran has been the light of my life, and I knew exactly what the author talked about when she described the teachers, the Jazaria poem, the eventual test by a Sheikh, and everything else. She painted a beautiful and accurate picture, one that even as a Syrian hafiza I couldn’t have described better myself.
This book affects people differently. The woman who lent it to me was a British convert who described it as a book about “women who memorised the Quran and the common excuses from those who didn’t “. This is the second half of the book, and while it is probably the part that the author herself would like us to focus on, my favourite part was the author’s own life story and experience.
I learned to no longer shy away from telling people I memorised the Quran, even though I used to feel like I was bragging. But this book showed me just how much women role models are needed. There are so few hafizat in the world! I experimented by asking my female teenage class if they knew any woman who memorised the Quran, and they hadn’t even heard of one! I immediately told them about myself and my experience, and encouraged them to begin their journey, while also recommending this book.
Thank you sister, for one of the best reads of my life. I will be sure to recommend it to others, and hopefully the number of hafizat in the world will increase.
June 7, 2021
This was an inspiring and calming read, a combination that I find myself more and more in need of as life goes on. First of all, the organization of the book works very well, starting with the author's story, then moving on to my favorite part, the stories of the other hafizat that she knows, then a variety of lessons learned and ways to approach the book of Allah.
The stories section was a mixture of making me feel motivated, but there were also stories that made me feel very aware of my own shortcomings...masha' Allah, these women have done so much to ingrain the word of Allah on their life, and it left me with awe and a bit of ghebta to read their stories. I think that is needed, however, to motivate one to try harder. Each of the stories shared has lessons learned and tips and the author was wise to include a variety of stories so that you could find the case that resonates most with your own...Alhamdolillah for He that guides us to such reads and guides others to writing them.
A highly recommended read for anyone seeking the journey towards befriending the book of Allah and making it a cornerstone in their life.
The stories section was a mixture of making me feel motivated, but there were also stories that made me feel very aware of my own shortcomings...masha' Allah, these women have done so much to ingrain the word of Allah on their life, and it left me with awe and a bit of ghebta to read their stories. I think that is needed, however, to motivate one to try harder. Each of the stories shared has lessons learned and tips and the author was wise to include a variety of stories so that you could find the case that resonates most with your own...Alhamdolillah for He that guides us to such reads and guides others to writing them.
A highly recommended read for anyone seeking the journey towards befriending the book of Allah and making it a cornerstone in their life.
October 14, 2018
Inspiring and motivating, ma shaa Allah. I pray that I will be able to complete the memorisation of the Quran just like the women that their stories been told in this book. Ameen.
May Allah rewards the writer for beautifully written down the stories and the spirit to memorise the Quran. <3
May Allah rewards the writer for beautifully written down the stories and the spirit to memorise the Quran. <3
August 25, 2018
I'm inspired to deepen my relationship with the Quran. I wish the stories were written in first person narrative. But it's a great read!
January 11, 2024
A beautifully written and formatted book that made me ponder about all sorts of things. The importance of tajwid, schedules, asking for forgiveness, spiritual sides of memorising, etc etc. Opened my eyes to a lot of different methods and roadblocks I may come across.
Big takeaway - never listen to anyone who says you can't do it. They may have valid concerns at times but take those concerns, address them, but keep on going. Even one word a day is better than listening to someone and abandoning the Quran.
Big takeaway - never listen to anyone who says you can't do it. They may have valid concerns at times but take those concerns, address them, but keep on going. Even one word a day is better than listening to someone and abandoning the Quran.
June 2, 2025
I loved this book. I loved how it took us through so many stories to emphasize that the Quran is for anyone, at any time, and that each person has her own journey. I loved how it talked about our relationship with memorizing the Quran being tied to the state of the heart, and that the process of memorizing is also a journey of spiritual growth and reflection. I loved how each hafiza had her own relationship with Allah’s book.
This book has inspired me to restart my journey with the Quran. Bismillah!
This book has inspired me to restart my journey with the Quran. Bismillah!
May 16, 2019
I picked it up and finished reading it in a day. I really love how simple the book is and how lovely the stories are.
I am happy that a variety of women's stories was included, I could relate to at least two sisters' stories.
Many things stood out for me, and the advice shared is so valuable.
I am even more determined now to continue on this journey.
It is a beautiful thing to have a good relationship with the Qur'an. I think about it being a companion for its reciter (in the grave and in the hereafter).
I love the ahaadith and quotes shared too.
I would recommend it to anyone interested in memorization or just wanting to have a better relationship with the Qur'an.
I am happy that a variety of women's stories was included, I could relate to at least two sisters' stories.
Many things stood out for me, and the advice shared is so valuable.
I am even more determined now to continue on this journey.
It is a beautiful thing to have a good relationship with the Qur'an. I think about it being a companion for its reciter (in the grave and in the hereafter).
I love the ahaadith and quotes shared too.
I would recommend it to anyone interested in memorization or just wanting to have a better relationship with the Qur'an.
May 19, 2019
Intention is important when one wants to start the Quran. In this book, it had been reiterated as well as the importance of tajweed. Overall, an inspiring book for Muslims regardless of gender. May we do better, May we be better, Insyallah
January 14, 2023
This is such a motivating book.
My favorite story was Umber, Dr.Sadia’s and Ustada Azza
Allahs says “Whoever is too busy with the Quran for remembering me and asking me, then i shall give him more than what i give to those who ask”
“ I could self identify as a hafiza as soon as I realized that perfection was an unattainable attainable goal. I did not have to embody the image of perfection I held in my head; instead, I had to share my dancing heart with the hearts that yearned to dance.” Page 29
My favorite story was Umber, Dr.Sadia’s and Ustada Azza
Allahs says “Whoever is too busy with the Quran for remembering me and asking me, then i shall give him more than what i give to those who ask”
“ I could self identify as a hafiza as soon as I realized that perfection was an unattainable attainable goal. I did not have to embody the image of perfection I held in my head; instead, I had to share my dancing heart with the hearts that yearned to dance.” Page 29
July 23, 2020
The first part of the book presents Saadia's story of how she memorised the Qur'an in America and Syria. Having lived in Syria myself I could relate to a lot of her stories that brought up old memories, which was a beautiful experience. Saadia Mian's writing style was very eloquent and beautiful, and I liked how smoothly she connected her personal story with scientific evidence on how our brains (and learning in general) works. I liked the tone and the vibe that was somewhere in between a biographical account and a manual.
The second part of the book gives space to the stories of other women and how they memorised the Qur'an by heart. While I find the idea great to not make the book about the author only but to share as many different experiences as possible, I found that the writing style of the second part was in stark contrast to the beautiful eloquent writing of the first part. It was very obvious that this second part was based on the interviews carried out with the women as the informal spoken language often shined through. I believe a second round of editing of this part would do it good to approach it to the first part in terms of stylistic beauty.
The third part of the book (Chapter six: Roadmap) functions more as a manual that leads you through the main topics related to recitation from Intention to Tahara in short paragraphs, often with sources from the Qur'an or Hadeeth. While this was generally useful, I was astonished that one specific topic very particular to *women* was not addressed: menstruation and the fiqh that allows or doesn't allow women to continue touching, reading, reciting and studying the Qur'an during her menses! For me, this was long one of the biggest if not the biggest difference in women's vs. men's relationship to the Qur'an, since according to most of the traditional madhahib, especially the Hanafi fiqh, women are not allowed to do that during their periods. I am glad that the Maliki madhhab has a different approach to this, but I wish it would have been mentioned in the book under the section of Tahara.
Overall, The Crowning Venture is still a beautiful and inspiring gem that I encourage every woman on the path of reciting Qur'an to read. For me it has been life-changing because it encouraged me to embark on a life-long journey of memorisation, which through reading this book, has become less daunting to me. I would give it 4.5 stars if I could.
Thanks for writing it, Ustadha Saadia!
The second part of the book gives space to the stories of other women and how they memorised the Qur'an by heart. While I find the idea great to not make the book about the author only but to share as many different experiences as possible, I found that the writing style of the second part was in stark contrast to the beautiful eloquent writing of the first part. It was very obvious that this second part was based on the interviews carried out with the women as the informal spoken language often shined through. I believe a second round of editing of this part would do it good to approach it to the first part in terms of stylistic beauty.
The third part of the book (Chapter six: Roadmap) functions more as a manual that leads you through the main topics related to recitation from Intention to Tahara in short paragraphs, often with sources from the Qur'an or Hadeeth. While this was generally useful, I was astonished that one specific topic very particular to *women* was not addressed: menstruation and the fiqh that allows or doesn't allow women to continue touching, reading, reciting and studying the Qur'an during her menses! For me, this was long one of the biggest if not the biggest difference in women's vs. men's relationship to the Qur'an, since according to most of the traditional madhahib, especially the Hanafi fiqh, women are not allowed to do that during their periods. I am glad that the Maliki madhhab has a different approach to this, but I wish it would have been mentioned in the book under the section of Tahara.
Overall, The Crowning Venture is still a beautiful and inspiring gem that I encourage every woman on the path of reciting Qur'an to read. For me it has been life-changing because it encouraged me to embark on a life-long journey of memorisation, which through reading this book, has become less daunting to me. I would give it 4.5 stars if I could.
Thanks for writing it, Ustadha Saadia!
January 20, 2021
Amazing stories & wonderful journeys from remarkable women ❤️
How can one not feeling Inspired? I believe these women and their journey of Quran Memorisation makes them envied without malice by many people out there.
Lots of beautiful advices & tips given throughout the book and one can apply not only for the sake of memorising the Quran but also for the purpose of learning the deen & to deepen our relationship of the Quran. Here’s some;
➡️ Intention- Do it solely for the sake of Allah, neither for recognition nor fame.
➡️ It is a lifelong endeavour NOT that you memorize it one time & that’s it you’re done. No, it’s a lifetime journey. You’re the carrier of Quran and it should be reflected in you. You try as best as you can to live by the Quran
➡️ There’s no such thing as ‘perfect time’ you have to ‘just start’. Don’t let anyone tell that you CAN’T or SHOULDN’T because you definitely can by the will of Allah
➡️ Always & always purify yourself. Perform
Your Tawba regularly. Be conscious & always self reflecting
➡️ Dua is essential in every step of the way. Make Dua at all times to Allah SWT coz nothing will be possible except by His Permission.
And the list goes on...
How can one not feeling Inspired? I believe these women and their journey of Quran Memorisation makes them envied without malice by many people out there.
Lots of beautiful advices & tips given throughout the book and one can apply not only for the sake of memorising the Quran but also for the purpose of learning the deen & to deepen our relationship of the Quran. Here’s some;
➡️ Intention- Do it solely for the sake of Allah, neither for recognition nor fame.
➡️ It is a lifelong endeavour NOT that you memorize it one time & that’s it you’re done. No, it’s a lifetime journey. You’re the carrier of Quran and it should be reflected in you. You try as best as you can to live by the Quran
➡️ There’s no such thing as ‘perfect time’ you have to ‘just start’. Don’t let anyone tell that you CAN’T or SHOULDN’T because you definitely can by the will of Allah
➡️ Always & always purify yourself. Perform
Your Tawba regularly. Be conscious & always self reflecting
➡️ Dua is essential in every step of the way. Make Dua at all times to Allah SWT coz nothing will be possible except by His Permission.
And the list goes on...
August 15, 2021
Stories ~ One of the most impactful ways to relate to an audience is to share a story. It not only brings home the point, but also stays in the memory a lot longer than otherwise. This is why the book “The Crowning Venture” is so powerful. It shares stories of those who have walked the path already with advice and wisdom for us to be able to do the same.
While reading the stories, I learned about dedication, persistence, reliance on Allah, patience through life’s trials, and what it means to walk the path towards Allah ﷻ.
This book is a collection of stories from Hafizas who have memorised the Quran. They are young, old, students, homemakers and everything in between. Some took a year and some took more, but what I got from it were lessons for all of my spiritual goals. Some of the questions it answered were: What does it mean to strive for the sake of Allah? How can one do so? How to surpass some of the obstacles that come in our way? How to pray through life?
“The Crowning Venture” left me feeling inspired, motivated, hopeful and just in awe of how Allah ﷻ selects, guides, and helps those who He chooses.
Definitely a recommended read!
While reading the stories, I learned about dedication, persistence, reliance on Allah, patience through life’s trials, and what it means to walk the path towards Allah ﷻ.
This book is a collection of stories from Hafizas who have memorised the Quran. They are young, old, students, homemakers and everything in between. Some took a year and some took more, but what I got from it were lessons for all of my spiritual goals. Some of the questions it answered were: What does it mean to strive for the sake of Allah? How can one do so? How to surpass some of the obstacles that come in our way? How to pray through life?
“The Crowning Venture” left me feeling inspired, motivated, hopeful and just in awe of how Allah ﷻ selects, guides, and helps those who He chooses.
Definitely a recommended read!
November 13, 2019
I love the flow of this book, the writing style and tone (very positive and encouraging), as well as the stories of the women included inside (and how diverse it is).
Saadia Mian told her own personal stories, the women she interviewed, and gave plenty of tips and guidance for women who want to memorize the Qurán.
However, though the book go for inspirational vibe, but I think the overall vibe is it's just a book that tries to be practical and provides you with the practical tools.
After numerous attempt, and failing to be able to recite fluently from my memory more than one page at once, even after 6 sessions with my Qurán Buddy, I now realized that memorizing the Qurán is not just about technique and determination, though it surely is a really big part of it.
I wish she would have talked and addressed more about that - that it's not just techniques, tips, and determination, but also about your heart, your emotions, your spirituality, your intention, and your resoluteness about the beliefs you hold about Allah and the Qurán.
Saadia Mian told her own personal stories, the women she interviewed, and gave plenty of tips and guidance for women who want to memorize the Qurán.
However, though the book go for inspirational vibe, but I think the overall vibe is it's just a book that tries to be practical and provides you with the practical tools.
After numerous attempt, and failing to be able to recite fluently from my memory more than one page at once, even after 6 sessions with my Qurán Buddy, I now realized that memorizing the Qurán is not just about technique and determination, though it surely is a really big part of it.
I wish she would have talked and addressed more about that - that it's not just techniques, tips, and determination, but also about your heart, your emotions, your spirituality, your intention, and your resoluteness about the beliefs you hold about Allah and the Qurán.
January 10, 2020
I truly appreciated the diversity of the interviewees. Arabic speakers and non - Arabic speakers. Young and elderly. Born Muslims and reverts. Mothers and grandmothers. Each had a different experience and method but all had a love for the Quran. All the women gave advice and humbly shared their struggles. I feel that this is a book to reread in order to stay encouraged, have reminders, and to have role models as we develop a personal relationship with Allah’s book.
The personal reflections are full of jewels. One in particular stuck with me...”the teacher asked if I could feel it (Quran) dancing in my heart. I could and it was something I never expected.”
Oh Allah bless us to “feel” the Quran in our hearts as we build a lifelong love for your word.
The personal reflections are full of jewels. One in particular stuck with me...”the teacher asked if I could feel it (Quran) dancing in my heart. I could and it was something I never expected.”
Oh Allah bless us to “feel” the Quran in our hearts as we build a lifelong love for your word.
January 26, 2021
This isn’t a book you finish and you’re done, this is a book that is hopefully the beginning of a life long journey and I hope this teaches us all that women SHOULD learn and memorise the Quran.
It boggles my mind that women and girls are discouraged to do so.
This book has stories from women from a young age to women learning and memorising much later in life.
It gives you hope and encouragement as well as practical tips on how to start.
EVERYONE should read this book and apply these lessons for anyone wanting to learn and memorise the Quran at any age.
It boggles my mind that women and girls are discouraged to do so.
This book has stories from women from a young age to women learning and memorising much later in life.
It gives you hope and encouragement as well as practical tips on how to start.
EVERYONE should read this book and apply these lessons for anyone wanting to learn and memorise the Quran at any age.
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