Insha’Allah (إن شاء الله)—a word that carried so much mystery and frustration for me as a child. Every time I asked an adult in my household for something, the response often came wrapped in this phrase: “Insha’Allah.” Was it a yes? A no? A maybe? Like little Ranya in “Insha’Allah, No, Maybe So” by Rhonda & Nadia Roumani and Olivia Aserr, I sometimes found myself confused, even annoyed. Yet, just like Ranya, I eventually came to understand its deeper meaning.
My mother once lovingly explained, “Yes, and I’m praying for it too. Only Allah knows what the future holds, so we say Insha’Allah because we trust in His plans.” That simple yet profound lesson has stayed with me, shaping how I navigate life’s uncertainties.
This book beautifully explores the layered meanings of Insha’Allah (إن شاء الله) through the tender conversations between Ranya and her mom. The story is relatable, heartwarming, and a gentle reminder of the patience and faith this word represents. Plus, the Author’s Note sheds light on the universality of Insha’Allah, used by Arabic speakers of all faiths across the globe—something I didn’t realize growing up!
If you’ve ever wondered why Insha’Allah sometimes feels like “maybe” but means so much more, this book is a must-read for you and your little ones. It’s a sweet reminder that even in uncertainty, there’s always hope.
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