Review: United Heroes by Marzieh Meisami Azad and Yegane Khashkhashi Moghadam

Today I'm reviewing something a little different: a short one-shot manga that deals with the struggle of a Muslim high-school hijabi who wants nothing more than to be a part of the volleyball team, but whose coach refuses to let her be on the team due to her hijab. The main character has to choose between her faith and her passion for volleyball.

It's a very short, 5-minute read, so if you're looking for something to read while taking a quick break, do check it out! You can read the whole thing here for free. You can also find the artist's IG here (Marzieh Meisami Azad).

Check out this gorgeous cover! The artist's IG handle is @marzieh_m70 so give her a follow if you enjoy her awesome art! 🎨

Overall Thoughts and Review

I thought this sports manga had a superb art style, which definitely caught my eye right away. But I also enjoyed the storyline and how it was portrayed visually. I appreciate a representation which shows a hijabi character whose faith is strong and who does not give in to external pressure to remove her hijab. Moreover, it's a heartwarming story wherein people stand up to discrimination and protest it in a peaceful and understanding way. 

While we can't see what happens past the final plot twist, I imagine that with friends as brave and helpful as hers, Samira will probably prevail. While she doesn't want to make any trouble - doesn't seem to feel confident enough to protest her coach's unreasonable demand that she take off her hijab (as if it's just a hat that can be taken on and off whenever and wherever) - her friends take matters into her own hands and help her realize that she can take a stand, and that they'll stand with her. 

I think this kind of story is not only short and sweet, it also creates a great example for people who might find themselves in a similar situation. Samira is able to find comfort in her religion, and her friends are able to support her because they realize that the coach is being unreasonable in expecting her to take off her hijab to play volleyball, despite the fact that it doesn't hinder her ability to play (or anyone else's). 

This was a great read! Time well spent. I hope more people check it out - I don't think you'll regret it.