RAMIN ABBAS HAS MAJOR QUESTIONS

A closeted Muslim Pakistani Canadian teenager yearns for acceptance and belonging.

Ramin has been raised to believe that homosexuality is sinful, making self-acceptance difficult. His struggle intensifies when he learns he’s missing the 50 hours of PE that he needs to graduate. The only practical option is playing soccer—there’s a spot open since team member Ahmed Qureshi was recently removed. But non-sporty Ramin is apprehensive about proximity to his crush, Fahad Ali Khan (aka “Captain Handsome”). Worse, bully Assim, who’s seeking retribution for his brother, Ahmed, has discovered Ramin is gay and threatens to out him unless he throws the semifinal. Debut author Saber handles these conflicts sensitively, drawing readers into the complicated experience of being both Muslim and gay, offering visibility to teens who share these identities, and expanding conversations about how queer individuals often turn to religion for solace even when family and faith-based communities reject them. Through the supporting cast members, Saber highlights the healing power of love, friendship, sibling bonds, and trusted adults in a queer teenager’s life. He emphasizes how inclusive interpretations of scripture can create room for queer-affirming religious life and compellingly explores the guilt associated with emigration and the stigma around seeking professional mental health support in many South Asian and Muslim families. These heavier elements are beautifully contrasted with Ramin’s humorous voice and his ability to soothe himself through the joy he finds in origami and Broadway musicals.

An ode to the courage it takes to live with authenticity.