On the surface, The Proudest Blue by Olympic Medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad appears to be a story of beauty and choice. It’s Asiya’s first day wearing her “brightest blue” hijab at school. The hijab enchants her younger sister, Faizah; in her eyes, she and her sister are royalty. The story explores bullying, curiosity, and acceptance by showing one’s faith in school.

During my second year of high school, my classmate Hend stood in front of the class to share her decision to wear a hijab. She explained that this would be her new way of dressing and encouraged us to ask her any questions we might have. I wasn’t sure if I asked her, but I remember thinking, “Will you still be the same Hend?” It felt like wearing the hijab might change the clever and witty teenager that everyone in our class loved. I think it may have made her remarkable characteristics stand out even more.

Her courage introduced me to a new reality, though I didn’t realize it then. Years later, I had the opportunity to bring confirmation teens to a mosque to learn about the Islamic faith. Even though our beliefs differed, we found common ground in our religious roots. Shortly after, I sat in solidarity with our brothers and sisters and prayed for religious freedom after the tragedy at a New Zealand mosque.

This children’s story is an excellent introduction to a faith practice that may be unknown and scary to many readers. The name Asiya means “healer,” while Faizah translates to “victory.” Another interpretation of Ibtihaj Muhammad’s narrative could be the story of a healer who takes steps to mend wounds, empowering girls and women who wear the hijab to embrace their faith as champions.