Hail Mariam
Life as a tween is complicated, messy, and sometimes terrifying — but also full of small victories.
PRE-READING THOUGHTS
I’m expecting honesty, humour, and that sharp awareness of how unfair life can feel when you’re twelve. Hoping for a story about faith, friendship, family, and figuring out where you belong.
POST-READING
As I thought…
Mariam’s voice is authentic, observant, and quietly hilarious. The challenges of navigating a new school, family expectations, and personal faith are handled with warmth and nuance. The book doesn’t shy away from the tough parts of life, but it’s full of supportive adults, friendships, and moments of joy.
It surprised me by…
The depth of empathy woven throughout. Mariam’s struggles with identity and belonging resonate far beyond her age, and the story subtly celebrates interfaith understanding without being preachy. It’s tender, clever, and deeply human.
MUSIC PAIRING
🎵 Featured Song: “Put Your Records On” — Corinne Bailey Rae (light, hopeful, authentic)
🎶 Vibe Album: Annie Lennox – Medusa (soft, reflective, emotive)
🎧 Artist Recommendation: Norah Jones
VIBE CHECK
🎨 Colour Palette: Soft blue, warm beige, gentle greens
🎧 Soundtrack: Whispered classroom chatter, pages turning, soft laughter
🍁 Season: Winter, with small lights in the dark — hope amidst challenge
😶🌫️ Mood: Honest, contemplative, tenderly resilient
🌿 Scent: Warm bread, paper, faint incense
TAROT PULL — 8 of Cups (Unfolding Path Tarot)
The 8 of Cups depicts a solitary figure walking away from a lopsided stack of cups, back turned to the viewer, stepping toward the unknown. It embodies Mariam’s journey: leaving behind comfort and certainty to navigate new spaces, balancing faith and friendships, and embracing personal growth. The card speaks to quiet courage, resilience, and the tender steps of self-discovery that define her story.
FOR FANS OF…
📚 Judy Blume classics
📺 Anne with an E (for empathy, curiosity, and navigating life as a young girl finding her place)