Lalla lives in the Muslim country of Mauritania, and more than anything, she wants to wear a malafa, the colorful cloth Mauritanian women, like her mama and big sister, wear to cover their heads and clothes in public. But it is not until Lalla realizes that a malafa is not just worn to show a woman's beauty and mystery or to honor tradition—a malafa for faith—that Lalla's mother agrees to slip a long cloth as…
4.9Overall Score
Deep in the Sahara
Reader's Review A unique take on hijab from the perspective of a young girl in Mauritania who wishes to wear the 'malafa' - a colourful garment worn by older women. The poetic language ...
Reader’s Review
A unique take on hijab from the perspective of a young girl in Mauritania who wishes to wear the ‘malafa’ – a colourful garment worn by older women. The poetic language describes her search to find out what is the purpose of the malafa and finally she is thrilled when she can wear it while praying. This is more of a cultural book, however, than a religious one.
To look out for
- Islamic Values: Some of the women who wear malafas are dressed more culturally than religiously (with flip-flops and some skin and hair showing).
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