Al-Qalam 
By Azra Hoosen
Well-wishers gathered at Baitul Hikmah recently to celebrate something extraordinary — the launch of a children’s book titled The Secret Amongst the Olives, written by 11-year-old Maariyah Mathir of Durban.
Maariyah’s book is already drawing attention for its creativity, mystery and subtle threads of Islamic history woven into the storyline. The book is aimed at readers aged 8 to 10 and follows two girls, Salma and Zahra, who set off in search of a missing family treasure. Along the way, readers are introduced to real historical Muslim figures, including Abu Bakr Effendi, a 19th-century scholar who plays a key role in the plot, among others. “This is because of my interest and love for Islamic history,” said Maariyah.
It is not every day that a tween takes the leap from journaling to publication. Maariyah told Al-Qalam how her journey began unexpectedly. “I actually wrote the story for a creative writing competition but just before submitting, I discovered that it was for ages 16 and above. I was really disappointed. My sister then suggested we have it published as a book instead, and that’s how it all began,” she said.
What followed was months of back-and-forth, editing and learning about the publishing process. “The most challenging part was relying on adults to take care of getting it published. Publishers don’t exactly deal with an 11-year-old,” Maariyah joked. The end result was a beautiful paperback with her name on the cover. “The most fun part was getting to hold the printed copy of my book,” she said.
Maariyah’s mother, Fehmeeda, reflected on the experience with humility and gratitude. “It felt like a long process, but in retrospect I make shukr to Allah for giving us the means to have this published,” she said. Her gratitude extends to the publishing company, Baitul Hikmah, that brought her daughter’s story to life.
While the achievement might sound overwhelming to many parents, her mom said the key is simple: “love what you do”. “Maariyah is really just a regular 11-year-old who does what she loves and that’s the key. Alhamdulillah, attending an Islamic school helps balance her Salah and academics, which makes after-school sport easier. Her gymnastics is twice a week, and we do fun runs together on weekends—so it’s all spread out. The only activity she does every day is reading,” she explained.
Maariyah’s advice to other kids who want to write is to just start. “Write your thoughts, it won’t be perfect and that’s okay. Also, read a lot of books in different genres,” she said.
Her HOD at Orient Islamic School, Fathima Rajub, echoed the sentiments of pride: “I am in absolute awe of Maariyah’s incredible talents. It comes as no surprise, though. Maariyah has been penning wondrous tales from Grade 1. Her varied interests reflect a beautiful balance of creativity, stamina and intellect. She didn’t just chase her dream, she wrote it! Maariyah is truly an inspiration and I can’t wait to see the many chapters of her life unfold.”
Beyond the book, Maariyah’s story carries a quiet reminder for parents: pay attention to your children’s interests and create opportunities for them to explore. “Allah has blessed every individual with something special. Believe in your child! Be the positive voice in their head. When Maariyah showed interest in writing, I took her to meet two local authors at a book reading. Find people in the field who will inspire them,” said her mother.
Maariyah’s parents hope she continues to grow with kindness. “We hope her passion for writing becomes a way to uplift others and make a positive difference in the world.”
With a cliffhanger ending to her book, Maariyah already has plans to write a second book.
Whether she’s running on a weekend trail, doing flips in gymnastics, or buried in a new novel, one thing is certain: this young storyteller is just getting started.
The Secret Amongst the Olives is available for purchase for R100 at Al-Ansaar Bookstore and online. Maariyah will be holding a book signing on Saturday, July 12th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Al-Ansaar.
