Picture a vibrant storyteller who spun a tale of courage and friendship in the face of adversity—meet Laila Sabreen! A rising star in young adult literature, Sabreen captivates readers with her debut novel, You Truly Assumed, a powerful exploration of Black Muslim identity and online activism. Raised in the Washington, DC area and shaped by her studies at Emory University, Sabreen’s fresh voice is reshaping contemporary YA fiction with heart and authenticity.
Her storytelling blends emotional depth with pressing societal issues, drawing readers into worlds where teens navigate complex identities with resilience. Sabreen’s work isn’t just a read—it’s a call to reflect, connect, and celebrate diverse voices in literature.
The Making of Laila Sabreen
Laila Sabreen grew up in the bustling Washington, DC area, where weekly library trips sparked her love for stories. As a five-year-old, she penned fanfiction inspired by the Angelina Ballerina series, unaware she was already honing her craft. This early passion for reading and writing carried her to Emory University, where she double-majored in English and Sociology. Now pursuing a PhD in English Literature, Sabreen balances academic rigor with her creative pursuits, drawing inspiration from her research on Black girlhood and literature.
Her path to authorship began in high school, where she started drafting You Truly Assumed after the 2016 election, grappling with rising Islamophobia. Mentorship programs like TeenPit and Author Mentor Match helped her navigate the publishing world, transforming her personal reflections into a resonant debut novel.
Laila Sabreen’s Unforgettable Stories
Sabreen’s debut, You Truly Assumed, released on February 8, 2022, with Inkyard Press, is a standout in YA contemporary fiction. The novel follows three Black Muslim teens—Sabriya, Zakat, and Farah—who create a blog to combat Islamophobia after a terrorist attack sparks anti-Muslim sentiment. Through alternating perspectives, Sabreen weaves a tapestry of friendship, family, and activism, highlighting the diversity of Black Muslim experiences. Readers praise its authentic portrayal of teens as complex, real people, not stereotypes, with supportive families and nuanced struggles.
In 2023, Sabreen contributed a short story to the YA anthology Study Break, published by Feiwel & Friends. This collection, featuring Gen Z voices, showcases her ability to craft concise yet impactful narratives. Her writing style is vibrant and accessible, blending emotional resonance with sharp social commentary. Themes of identity, community, and resistance shine through, making her work a beacon for readers seeking representation and hope.
Sabreen’s stories stand out for their focus on online spaces as havens for connection. Drawing from her own experience as a high school book blogger, she explores how virtual communities empower teens to challenge assumptions and build solidarity. Her narratives pulse with optimism, even amidst heavy topics, offering a refreshing take on YA literature.
Why Laila Sabreen Matters
Laila Sabreen’s impact lies in her fearless centering of Black Muslim teens, an often-overlooked group in literature. Her work fills a critical gap, offering representation that resonates with readers who see themselves in her characters. Authors like S.K. Ali and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé have lauded her for crafting stories that affirm and uplift, while her academic research amplifies Black girlhood in literary discourse. Sabreen’s ability to balance activism with heartwarming storytelling inspires readers to confront biases and embrace empathy.
As a Gen Z author, Sabreen speaks directly to her generation, infusing YA fiction with hope and authenticity. Her growing influence signals a bright future, where diverse voices shape the literary landscape. Whether through novels or anthologies, Sabreen’s stories are a testament to the power of using one’s voice to create change.
- Born: Washington, DC area
- Key Works: You Truly Assumed (2022), Study Break (2023)
- Education: Emory University (BA), pursuing PhD in English Literature
- Fun Fact: She creates niche playlists when not writing!
Snag You Truly Assumed and dive into Laila Sabreen’s vibrant world of YA contemporary fiction! Her stories are a must-read for anyone craving heartfelt tales of friendship and resilience.