MuslimMatters.org announced the winners of the Muslim Book Awards 2025 on January 9, 2026, recognizing exceptional Muslim authors and illustrators across nine categories, from toddler books to adult fiction. The annual awards, now in their fifth year, honor books that combine quality writing, unique storytelling, and Islamic values, according to Muslim Matters.
Rigorous Selection Process Champions Diverse Muslim Voices
“Each year, the judges of the Muslim Book Awards spend time and thought on choosing the best Muslim books of the year. We look for quality of writing, rich and unique stories, and most importantly, Islamic values being upheld and highlighted,” the judges stated in the announcement published on MuslimMatters.org.
After finalists were announced on January 5, 2026, judges cast their final ballots following extensive reading, discussion, and deliberation. The awards accept submissions from Muslim authors, illustrators, and publishers regardless of whether books are self-published, Muslim-published, or traditionally published, according to Ummid.com.
Children’s Literature Dominates Winner’s Circle
“Here’s Our Religion” won the Best Toddler Book award for its giant-sized board book format that introduces Islamic concepts, including Ummah, Qur’an, Salah, Ramadan, Zakat, Hajj, and Sunnah through images and descriptions, according to Muslim Matters.
“Saif’s Special Patches” won Best Picture Book with its story of a shy boy whose quilt patches represent instances of persistence, helpfulness, bravery, and intelligence—reminding him that accomplishing difficult tasks like learning to swim or helping at the masjid is possible, Muslim Matters reported.
The Best Holiday Book winner, “The Eid al-Fitr Bag,” tells the story of Sarah’s first Eid al-Fitr in a new country. “It isn’t just a story about celebrating Eid al-Fitr; it’s a story of culture, faith, anticipation, disappointment, change, and appreciation,” according to the judges’ description on Muslim Matters. The book explores Sarah’s longing for Pakistan and traditional celebrations while discovering that different traditions can bring joy.
Young Adult and Non-Fiction Categories Address Complex Themes
“Huda F Wants to Know?” secured Best Young Adult for tackling mental health, friendship, and family relationships with nuance. The graphic novel follows Huda as she prepares for her junior year while focusing on ACT exam prep and scholarships—until her parents announce their divorce, Muslim Matters reported.
“Shining Hearts: Sahabah Stories for Kids” by Marium Uqaili won Best Juvenile Non-Fiction for introducing five male and five female companions “in a way that isn’t dry or too detail-heavy,” with well-spaced text and side facts making it “excellent for 5+ as a learning resource,” according to the judges.
Adult Fiction and Visual Excellence Recognized
“Far Away from Home” earned Best Adult Fiction honors as “a brilliant debut that brings us the story of three Black American Muslims in New Orleans, set after Hurricane Katrina,” Muslim Matters stated. The book weaves together spiritual journeys, personal struggles, and Black Muslim history in America.
“The Heart of Design: Spirituality, Creativity and Entrepreneurship” won Best Adult Non-Fiction for examining Islamic principles in design, business, and creative pursuits. “The book connects personal spiritual lessons with external practice, highlighting how one can cultivate a holistic higher praxis,” according to Muslim Matters.
“Dear Moon” claimed Best Illustrations as “a visually gorgeous book” featuring soft color schemes, hijabi characters, and Islamic reminders from artist Zayneb Haleem’s collection of Quranic ayaat and gentle Islamic reminders, the judges stated.
Special Recognition for Literary Excellence
The Judges’ Choice award went to “A Mouth Full of Salt,” described as “a tale of long-ago (and yet not that long ago) Sudan that meanders like the Nile, but with a powerful undercurrent.” The story begins with a child drowning in a village, triggering tragedies and discoveries that uncover generational secrets, with women at the village periphery playing crucial roles, Muslim Matters reported.
“Everything Grows in Jiddo’s Garden” received the Bookseller’s Choice award for its story of a young Palestinian girl learning from her grandfather that tending a garden connects displaced families to their homeland and each other until they can return, according to Muslim Matters.