Publishers Weekly
01/17/2022
Safi (This Is All Your Fault) transposes the myth of Robin Hood from Nottingham to Jerusalem in this addition to the Remixed Classics series, an imaginative retelling set during the height of the 12th-century Third Crusade. Rahma al-Hud, having joined older sister Zeena in fighting the war for the Holy Land, now wants nothing more than to return home safely. Headstrong Zeena, however, is determined to travel to Jerusalem and defend it from “False Queen Isabella.” The two embark on a daring trek through the Holy Land, in the process adding a host of characters to their retinue. First comes Teni, a serene warrior clan mate of Genghis Khan; Jewish Andalusian scientist Viva; Majid, a charming childhood friend of Rahma’s with ulterior motives; and John, a reserved English chaplain. The crew’s modest ambitions soon explode into the greatest of responsibilities: attempting to defeat the ruthless queen and bring peace to the war-torn realm. Though the novel’s meandering plot can slow its dramatic tension, it features a host of well-rounded characters—including Isabella, a nuanced villain whose own perspective appears throughout. Paired with an ethnically diverse cast, a strong, affectionate sibling relationship and touches of romance, queer and straight, lend warmth and humor to the narrative. Ages 13–up. Agent: Lauren MacLeod, Strothman Agency. (Mar.)
From the Publisher
Praise for Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix:
"Travelers Along the Way is the Robin Hood retelling I did not know I wanted. Deeply researched and masterfully written, here is a story that’s not only thrilling, but also delightfully clever! Rahma al-Hud and her band of merry misfits will appeal to history buffs and adventure seekers alike. A must read!" —Tanaz Bhathena, author of A Girl Like That and Hunted by the Sky
"If you love heists, found family, and stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, then put Aminah Mae Safi's heartfelt and humorous take on Robin Hood at the very top of your TBR. Sisterhood, cunning disguises, and a bit of horse thievery: Travelers Along the Way is an adventure story that has it all." —Jodi Meadows, New York Times-bestselling co-author of My Lady Jane
"In Travelers Along the Way, Safi has assembled the perfect team to steal my heart. This is the thoughtful, thought-provoking, and wildly fun retelling of Robin Hood you’ve been waiting for!" —Kiersten White, New York Times-bestselling author of And I Darken
"Finally, a Robin Hood retelling I can get behind! Safi delivers a remarkable new story that stands on its own, adding depth and humor galore while paying homage to a centuries-old myth. Put this one on hold at your local library, because you’re not going to want to miss it." —Book Riot
"This take on Robin Hood from the Remixed Classics series is truly original, positing the Robin Hood figure in and around Jerusalem from a Muslim perspective. Fans of the legend have plenty of references to indulge in, from Rahma al-Hud’s similar-sounding name to the roles of her "merry misfits" and the attempts by Queen Isabella to lure her out, and readers who appreciate historical accuracy will delight in the many mentions of real people, places, and events from the past."—The Bulletin
"An imaginative retelling ... Paired with an ethnically diverse cast, a strong, affectionate sibling relationship and touches of romance, queer and straight, lend warmth and humor to the narrative." —Publishers Weekly
Praise for Remixed Classics:
"'Fun' doesn’t even begin to describe this rich and imaginative retelling of Treasure Island. ... It’s obvious that this book was a labor of love, which made it all the more enjoyable to read. Pirate stories don’t get much better than this." —Hypable, on A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix by C.B. Lee
"Morrow’s ability to take the lingering stain of slavery on American history and use it as a catalyst for unbreakable love and resilience is flawless. That she has remixed a canonical text to do so only further illuminates the need to critically question who holds the pen in telling our nation’s story." —Booklist, starred review, on So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow
"Morrow's nuanced take on what life was like for newly freed Black people at this time will prompt readers to reconsider the simplistic good vs. evil, North vs. South mythologies that characterize too many Civil War narratives. ... Alcott fans and newcomers alike will find much to appreciate in Morrow's sophisticated remix." —BookPage, starred review, on So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow
"Impressive ... Via delicately written characterizations, each March woman exemplifies the notion that the wounds of bondage don’t disappear simply because freedom is at hand, and the racist catalyst of enslavement doesn’t disappear with the stroke of a pen, as a beloved story gains new meaning through the lens of enduring Black resilience, love, and hope." —Publishers Weekly, starred review, on So Many Beginnings: A Little Women Remix by Bethany C. Morrow
Praise for This Is All Your Fault:
"Safi’s writing style draws readers into the story and makes them feel as if they truly know the characters. This book is a love letter to one of the most popular movies of the '90s and will be enjoyed by everyone who wants to fit in and fight for what they believe." —School Library Journal
"Each brooding, sarcastic, and honest voice is entertaining. ... Readers who appreciate strong character arcs and character-driven stories with clashing personalities will eat this right up." —Booklist
"Safi writes an energizing, character-driven celebration of belonging, acceptance, and sisterhood with a clear nod to the importance of community spaces." —Publishers Weekly
Praise for Tell Me How You Really Feel:
"Wonderful and fulfilling—an enemies-to-lovers story that stands out all on its own." —NPR
"This well-written and supremely satisfying romance should be in all collections." —School Library Journal, starred review
"The best kind of rom-com: genuine and absorbing, with wonderfully over-the-top declarations of love." —Shelf Awareness
Praise for Not the Girls You're Looking For:
“Safi’s prose style has a lively staccato rhythm . . . Her story provides a candid perspective on female friendships that are full of conflict, love, and angst.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Delightful and funny but still giving voice to serious issues of sexual consent and xenophobia." —Kirkus Reviews
"These authentic teen girls are smart, complicated, sexual, and sensitive.” —School Library Journal
“Engaging and unexpected, voice-y and full of verve, this a whip-smart swan dive into all the messiness of best friendships and new romance, fitting in and growing up.” —Katie Cotugno, New York Times–bestselling author of How to Love
