Description:
Seventeen-year-old Layla Hasan receives a mysterious olive-wood box from her late grandfather inscribed with a verse about Paradise-and a cryptic message: "Let your heart be the guide." Her search for the "Gardens of Jannah" takes her from Amman to Madīnah, through sacred texts, service, and dreams that test her soul. Guided by Qur'anic wisdom and prophetic teachings, Layla uncovers that the true gardens lie not on earth, but within. A deeply spiritual YA novel about faith, self-discovery, and the path to eternal peace through purification of the heart.
Brief description:
Amina Farooq is a Pakistani-American writer and former youth mentor who weaves stories that inspire spiritual growth and self-discovery. Drawing from her own experiences navigating identity, faith, and friendship, Amina writes heartfelt novels that center young Muslims exploring Islam in a modern world. Her books invite readers to see the beauty of the Prophet ﷺ's example in everyday struggles. When not writing, she enjoys leading book clubs at her local masjid and hiking with her family.