Leyla was a freshman at the Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, MD where she wrote I am the Night Sky. She enjoys playing soccer, biking, writing, and ceramics. She is an active member of the Islamic Community Center of Potomac.

As the only Muslim in her primarily white freshman class, it can be hard to step up or stand out, for fear that her actions may be used to generalize all other Muslims. Joining this book project with NWMI and Shout Mouse really helped Leyla to activate her voice as a young American Muslim.

“Sharing my story is my own small way of defying the stereotypes I face everyday. I hope that my writing inspires anyone trying to find their own voice, and that it helps start conversations that are much overdue.”

BOOKS BY LEYLA

RECOGNITION