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Reviews tagging 'Bullying'
Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream by Ibtihaj Muhammad
1 review
sarahbythebook's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
slow-paced
3.5
Overall I enjoyed Proud, and I think it's an important story, both for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Abtihaj Muhammad undoubtably broke barriers to get to the Olympics for Hijabi women, black women, and those who would normally be considered "too old" for something like elite sports. Her story is inspiring, and I think this book is accessible enough for high school students to benefit from her story.
As much as I enjoyed it, though, there were things I took issue with. The conflict with the national team and coach were uncomfortable to read for reasons I’m having trouble naming. What all of these people did to her is unacceptable, but a part of me hopes that both parties tried to reach resolutions. The criticism of the national coaches and teammates becomes even more confusing when Muhammad recounts the team event in the 2016 Olympics. You'd almost think there was no conflict between them if you read it separately.
I want to make it clear that I don't think Muhammad is in any way wrong or unjustified for including these stories of micro and large-scale aggressions. I just hope this isn't the first time these people are hearing about the slights she received. There's no disclosure of attempts to mitigate the problems through honest conversation which makes her come across as arrogant and petty at times.
I wasn't a huge fan of the plug for her clothing line midway through either, but I can't be that mad because I did look it up. There are some beautiful dresses available!
I do wonder if I would have enjoyed this book more in print. Because of the simple and repetitive language, parts of the book felt boring. The minute details of walking into a locker room then walking out, for example, just got old very quickly, and they happen throughout the book.
I did like the book despite all the criticisms. It's an interesting look at both the life of a African-American Muslim family and an elite-level athlete in a largely unknown sport. I hate that the author had to experience as much dismissal of her ambitions as she did, and I am proud to know that she represented the US in the 2016 Olympics at the beginning of the rise of bigotry in this country. I believe that Ibtihaj Muhammad is a wonderful role model to young girls across the world, showing that your gender and your religion do not have to stop you from anything, no matter what others say or think.
As much as I enjoyed it, though, there were things I took issue with. The conflict with the national team and coach were uncomfortable to read for reasons I’m having trouble naming. What all of these people did to her is unacceptable, but a part of me hopes that both parties tried to reach resolutions. The criticism of the national coaches and teammates becomes even more confusing when Muhammad recounts the team event in the 2016 Olympics. You'd almost think there was no conflict between them if you read it separately.
I want to make it clear that I don't think Muhammad is in any way wrong or unjustified for including these stories of micro and large-scale aggressions. I just hope this isn't the first time these people are hearing about the slights she received. There's no disclosure of attempts to mitigate the problems through honest conversation which makes her come across as arrogant and petty at times.
I wasn't a huge fan of the plug for her clothing line midway through either, but I can't be that mad because I did look it up. There are some beautiful dresses available!
I do wonder if I would have enjoyed this book more in print. Because of the simple and repetitive language, parts of the book felt boring. The minute details of walking into a locker room then walking out, for example, just got old very quickly, and they happen throughout the book.
I did like the book despite all the criticisms. It's an interesting look at both the life of a African-American Muslim family and an elite-level athlete in a largely unknown sport. I hate that the author had to experience as much dismissal of her ambitions as she did, and I am proud to know that she represented the US in the 2016 Olympics at the beginning of the rise of bigotry in this country. I believe that Ibtihaj Muhammad is a wonderful role model to young girls across the world, showing that your gender and your religion do not have to stop you from anything, no matter what others say or think.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying and Islamophobia
Minor: Panic attacks/disorders and Fatphobia
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