Picture a storyteller who weaves tales of identity, friendship, and resilience with a vibrant, cinematic flair—meet Aminah Mae Safi! This Muslim-American young adult author has carved a unique space in literature, crafting stories that celebrate multicultural identities and challenge stereotypes. With a background in art history and a love for film, Safi brings a visually rich, heartfelt perspective to her novels, making her a standout voice in contemporary YA fiction.
The Making of Aminah Mae Safi
Born to a Muslim Iraqi father and a German-Mexican mother, Aminah Mae Safi grew up in Houston, Texas, navigating a tapestry of cultures. Raised in a family of storytellers, she was steeped in narratives from her grandfather, father, and aunts, which sparked her love for storytelling. After earning a bachelor’s degree in art history from the University of Southern California and a master’s in Islamic art history from the University of Chicago, Safi initially aimed for an academic career. However, her passion for fiction led her to write stories that reflect the in-between spaces of her own multicultural identity, particularly the Muslim-American experience during the post-9/11 era.
Aminah Mae Safi’s Unforgettable Stories
Safi’s debut novel, Not the Girls You’re Looking For (2018), introduces Lulu Saad, a biracial Muslim teen grappling with identity and friendship during Ramadan. With its sharp wit and honest exploration of prejudice, the book earned praise for its authentic portrayal of a Muslim-American teen. Her follow-up, Tell Me How You Really Feel (2019), is a romantic comedy inspired by classic rom-coms, following two ambitious girls—one a cheerleader, the other a budding filmmaker—who navigate love and rivalry. This Is All Your Fault (2020) channels Empire Records vibes, focusing on three teens fighting to save their indie bookstore, blending humor with themes of community and self-discovery. Finally, Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix (2022) reimagines the classic tale with a diverse cast, showcasing Safi’s knack for reworking familiar stories through a multicultural lens.
Safi’s writing style is lively and cinematic, often drawing from her love of films like The Fast and the Furious and Sofia Coppola’s visually lush works. Her stories break stereotypes, portraying young women who are bold, flawed, and unapologetically ambitious. Influenced by feminist icons like Jane Austen and Melina Marchetta, Safi centers friendship, identity, and growth, offering readers a fresh take on the YA genre.
Why Aminah Mae Safi Matters
Aminah Mae Safi’s work is a beacon for readers seeking diverse, authentic voices in YA literature. By showcasing Muslim-American and multicultural experiences, she challenges the singular narratives often found in media, creating space for teens who feel caught between cultures. Her commitment to feminist storytelling and her ability to blend humor, heart, and social commentary have earned her accolades, including the We Need Diverse Books short story contest. Safi’s novels resonate with readers who see themselves in her characters’ struggles and triumphs, making her a vital contributor to inclusive storytelling.
- Key Works: Not the Girls You’re Looking For, Tell Me How You Really Feel, This Is All Your Fault, Travelers Along the Way
- Awards: Winner of the We Need Diverse Books short story contest
- Hometown: Houston, Texas; now resides in Los Angeles, California
About Aminah Mae Safi
Ready to dive into a world of bold characters and heartfelt stories? Snag Not the Girls You’re Looking For and discover Aminah Mae Safi’s vibrant YA universe!