Description
Description
Aru Shah meets Aladdin in this fast-paced debut middle grade fantasy about a curious girl who discovers she has the power to control an all-powerful jinn. Insyirah's calm, orderly world falls into chaos when her proud nenek (grandmother) has a bad fall, and Insyirah and her mother must move back to Malaysia to take care of her. Her new home holds wild and dangerous mysteries, and while finding her feet, Insyirah discovers a shocking secret: the women in her family can control jinn--powerful, ancient jungle spirits--and, one day, she will inherit one of her own. What's more, her new school is haunted by an evil spirit determined to force her out of Malaysia. As Insyirah discovers the fascinating ways of the seen and unseen worlds, she finds danger around every corner. And when her family situation grows perilous, she must gather all her resilience to overcome unexpected obstacles and make a life-changing decision.
About the Author
About the Author
Raidah Shah Idil was born in Singapore; grew up in Sydney, Australia; worked in Amman, Jordan; and now lives in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, with her husband, three children, and mother-in-law. Raidah earned her BA in English and BSc in psychology from the University of New South Wales and her Diploma of Counselling from the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. Raidah loves ginger tea and noodle soup and dreams of uninterrupted sleep. How to Free a Jinn is her first book.
Critical Reviews
Critical Reviews
A SLJ BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
"In her fast-paced and thrilling debut, Idil has crafted a delightful tale of discovering one's family destiny, righting generations of wrongs, and fighting for freedom. Hand to fans of Rick Riordan, Maleeha Siddiqui, or Saadia Faruqi...A fresh, fantastical debut steeped in mythology and beautiful storytelling; a recommended first purchase for public and school libraries." --School Library Journal
"The thrilling story immerses readers in the Malaysian setting through sumptuous descriptions and vivid world building, skillfully weaving Islamic tenets and Malay folklore." --Booklist
"A Malay Muslim tween contends with the consequences of a generational connection with spirits in Idil's energetic debut...Syirah's relationship with Malaysian culture, as well as her desire to overcome her perceived limitations to protect herself and her loved ones, adds dimensionality to this bustling mythological adventure." --Publishers Weekly
This delightful coming-of-age tale weaves humor, deep family bonds, steadfast faith, and mythology into a wholly believable narrative...An intriguing exploration of mysticism and religion, centering on a strong and deeply relatable girl. --Kirkus Reviews
Publishing Information
Publishing Information
Publisher:
Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pub date:
2025-11-04
Length:
256 pages
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