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“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, Starred Review

“Accessible and inspiring…Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes From Around the World will inspire readers regardless of their backgrounds. Their passion for the sport they play and their determination to excel at it will motivate readers to pursue their passions, sports or otherwise. Highly recommended.”

– CM: Canadian Review of Materials

Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes from Around the World

Written by Charlene Smith
Illustrated by Natalya Tariq
Published by Orca Book Publishers

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.

Primary ISBN: 9781459838048
Publication Date: February 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Nonfiction, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Various (International)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country, Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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