Deliver toUnited Arab Emirates
Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream

Description:

Growing up in New Jersey as the only African American Muslim at school, Ibtihaj Muhammad always had to find her own way. When she discovered fencing, a sport traditionally reserved for the wealthy, she had to defy expectations and make a place for herself in a sport she grew to love.

From winning state championships to three-time All-America selections at Duke University, Ibtihaj was poised for success, but the fencing community wasn't ready to welcome her with open arms just yet. As the only woman of color and the only religious minority on Team USA's saber fencing squad, Ibtihaj had to chart her own path to success and Olympic glory.

Proud is a moving coming-of-age story from one of the nation's most influential athletes and illustrates how she rose above it all.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"What a clear-eyed and amazing memoir.... I plowed through it.... Ibtihaj's story is at once so deeply personal and amazingly universal."―Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award winner and New York Times bestselling author of Brown Girl Dreaming and Another Brooklyn

"Her story is inspiring and illuminating."―
The Christian Science Monitor

"A tumultuous, unforgettable tale of perseverance and faith."―
The Chicago Tribune

"A must-read."―
PopSugar

"[Ibtihaj's] stories of fighting racism and xenophobia are inspiring... but Muhammad's battles with her own demons are equally brave and 100 percent relatable."―
Glamour.com

"Ibtihaj Muhammad is as sharp with her words as she is with a sabre."―
The National (United Arab Emirates)

"Fencing made her who she is today, but fencing isn't her only narrative. Her journey is one of authenticity at all costs and being unapologetically herself."
ESPNw

"A powerful sentiment that sums up not only her own struggles, but those of so many minorities in America."

The Daily Beast

"It's clear that Muhammad has become an icon beyond the realm of sports.... Ibtihaj Muhammad's journey is uniquely her own, and yet, it is one that many people will find relatable, comforting, and inspiring."
Bustle

About the Author

Ibtihaj Muhammad is a fencer and the first Muslim American woman in hijab to compete for the United States in the Olympic Games. She is also the first female Muslim American to medal at the Olympic Games, winning bronze in the women's saber team event. An activist, speaker, and entrepreneur, Ibtihaj has written a memoir, Proud, and inspired the first hijabi Barbie in her likeness. She invites you to visit her online at ibtihajmuhammad.com.

S. K. Ali is the award-winning author of Saints and Misfits and Love from A to Z and the coeditor of an upcoming Eid anthology. Like Faizah and Asiya, she and her sister visited hijab shops every year before the first day of school to choose their proudest colors.

Hatem Aly is an Egyptian-born illustrator whose work has been featured on television and in multiple publications worldwide. Among other books, he illustrated Newbery Honor winning novel The Inquisitor's Tale by Adam Gidwitz. He currently lives in New Brunswick, Canada, with his wife, son, and more pets than people.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful and Compelling Story

N.E. · July 27, 2018

I am very glad to be able to have an insight into Ibtihaj's personal story in fencing. As a sabre fencer and fencing coach myself, I want to be able to support all of my students however they come into the salle, and I feel this book gave me a way to better understand her experience.I am also 100% in love with her hijab under her mask. Even though I am not Muslim, I have had waist length hair for my 20 years of fencing. When I saw her rising towards the 2016 Olympic games, I was floored that it took me so long to realized that it was perfectly possible for me to wear something under my mask to not have to rip my hair out on that darn Velcro! (20 years!!!) Going forward, I am going to find a similar head and hair covering for myself simply because of the utter practicality of the garment. At the same time, I hope that the act can normalize the idea of head coverings -- ANY head coverings -- for my students in the future.Thank you for all you do for fashion and fencing, Ibtihaj!

5.0 out of 5 stars I want my daughter to read this

R. · March 27, 2019

An amazing (modern) story of faith, family, and fighting for what you want and what you believe in. Ibtihaj is truly a role model for girls and boys (as well as adults!) at a time when society is craving more diversity and inspiration. I want my daughter to read this (she's only 3 now). Following Ibtihaj through her successes and failures highlight her determination and resolve. The book is not just about atheltic principles; using her platform for activism reminds us to take from our difficult lessons to better humanity.

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring and deeply truthfull

A.L. · May 27, 2019

After hearing Ibtihad in a podcast episode on Girlboss I HAD to read this book. I connected so much with it, because even if our stories are different, I can identify with her and her journey, whaaaat a journey. Beautiful book, written to be read, simple and honest but comming from an incredibly smart and complex woman who I so trully admire.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing read

A. · May 6, 2021

I really enjoyed reading this book about Ibtihaj Muhammad's life. She really does a great job walking the readers through the ups and downs of her life. I run a high school book club and this was the book of the month for April. The students talked about how inspirational the book was for them. Would definitely recommend.

4.0 out of 5 stars A story of being a person of color in white spaces and thriving (but also the challenges of it)

K.C. · September 6, 2021

I received a reviewer copy of Proud by Ibtihaj Muhammad from the publisher Hachette Books from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.CW: Racism, Xenophobia, Religious bigotry towards Muslims, Hate Letters and Death ThreatsWhat It’s About: Ibtihaj Muhammad is the first American Muslim Woman to wear Hijab in the Olympics. This is her story of how she got there.What I Loved: I loved reading this book during the Olympics. I am a huge fan of the Olympics and Ibtihaj made Olympic history so reading her story was great. Also, I found this book largely well written, which doesn’t always happen here. I really connected to the drive to do things for college admission and then finding your place in something you love. Ibtihaj writes a lot of being the only person of color in a room and the impact it had on her. Her journey to the Olympics wasn’t a straight forward path, like so many we see, and the role lack of diversity in her sport had on her made her stop several times. This book forced me to consider my own biases and think about how racism plays into sports, especially sports largely dominated by white people. I learned a lot and this story is a story of an American woman doing something extraordinary. I’m also from NJ so I enjoyed placing a lot of the descriptors in her work.What I Didn't Like So Much: I felt like often there were figures who let her down and didn’t have faith in her and then they would show up again, and it was like problem never existed. For instance her final coach was at the Olympics with her, but before then she said he didn’t travel or coach her cause he didn’t believe in her. I just felt like some gaps were there and we didn’t fully get the story of how things reconciled or went awry in case of friendships.Who Should Read This: People who love the Olympics. People who want to read stories about history-making women. People who want to read about people who perhaps don’t get a lot of attention. People who want to read a behind the scenes story.Quick Summary: Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first African American to wear Hijab, shares how she rose to the top in a sport largely populated by wealthy white kids.

5.0 out of 5 stars PROUD OF HER

P. · September 18, 2018

I am very glad that I purchased this book. It really has motivated me, and allowed me to get through some harsh times that I am going through in my life. I have followed her throughout her journey in the Olympics and love seeing her thrive with her own company in Fashion. Her journey to success did not come overnight, and she details the discrimination and harsh comments thrown at her because of her skin color and religious background. Despite all of that, she worked hard, kept her head held up high, and more importantly she refused to give up. She is definitely a SHERO to myself and so many others. Thank you Ms. Muhammad!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars As a fencing parent I got it for my daughter to read

A. · October 31, 2022

My daughter enjoys this book a lot. She read it during our last NAC trip. Fencing parent would understand what I am talking about:-) Believe me my kid does not enjoy reading nearly as much as she enjoys YouTube, so seeing her carrying this book around with her to read at the airport and during the flight already made me super happy …

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!

U. · January 19, 2020

Everyone should read Ibtihaj’s story, one of adversity and triumph. Her clarity and transparency are refreshingly honest in her assessment of race relations, intolerance of ‘difference’ and struggle to find her voice while remaining true to herself and who God created her to be. Phenomenal woman - phenomenal read!

Good Read

F.A. · December 26, 2018

If you want to find out about what life is like for Muslim women, living in the US, then I would recommend this book. Ibtihaj has written an honest and thought-provoking book, as a fellow Muslim author I'm recommending this book to my friends.Farhat AminBolo AuthorBelief in Allah: reasons why you should believe in GodThe Quran, the miracle given to Prophet Muhammad (saw)Child Loss, Miscarriage & Bereavement; a Muslim mother's perspective

Well Written, Amazing Story!

A.C. · April 19, 2020

I bought this for my eldest niece as a gift. I just read the first few sentences and was amazed. It is well written. My niece will be opening her gift this Eid. I will be sure to borrow it from her and read the rest of it! Highly recommend reading this book about an amazing inspirational women! This book is for everyone and anyone. If you can read, you MUST read this!

Such a inspirational and brave story loved!

L. · October 1, 2018

Such an inspiration story, I looooved this book. I could really relate and i enjoyed every part of it. Thank you for paving the way for others Ibtihaj, cannot wait to meet you one day.

easy read, great inspirational story

S. · September 6, 2018

Loved her unique lens on the world and her story of finding her way!

Very inspiring

T.R. · August 12, 2018

Very inspiring. The book applies to anybody that feels left out like they dont have a seat at the table. It is very inspiring to hear how she overcame the massive challenges in front of her.

Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream

Product ID: U0316518964
Condition: New

4.7

AED8579

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Hardcover
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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Similar items from “Islamic”

Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream

Product ID: U0316518964
Condition: New

4.7

Proud: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream-0
Type: Hardcover

AED8579

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

Growing up in New Jersey as the only African American Muslim at school, Ibtihaj Muhammad always had to find her own way. When she discovered fencing, a sport traditionally reserved for the wealthy, she had to defy expectations and make a place for herself in a sport she grew to love.

From winning state championships to three-time All-America selections at Duke University, Ibtihaj was poised for success, but the fencing community wasn't ready to welcome her with open arms just yet. As the only woman of color and the only religious minority on Team USA's saber fencing squad, Ibtihaj had to chart her own path to success and Olympic glory.

Proud is a moving coming-of-age story from one of the nation's most influential athletes and illustrates how she rose above it all.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"What a clear-eyed and amazing memoir.... I plowed through it.... Ibtihaj's story is at once so deeply personal and amazingly universal."―Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award winner and New York Times bestselling author of Brown Girl Dreaming and Another Brooklyn

"Her story is inspiring and illuminating."―
The Christian Science Monitor

"A tumultuous, unforgettable tale of perseverance and faith."―
The Chicago Tribune

"A must-read."―
PopSugar

"[Ibtihaj's] stories of fighting racism and xenophobia are inspiring... but Muhammad's battles with her own demons are equally brave and 100 percent relatable."―
Glamour.com

"Ibtihaj Muhammad is as sharp with her words as she is with a sabre."―
The National (United Arab Emirates)

"Fencing made her who she is today, but fencing isn't her only narrative. Her journey is one of authenticity at all costs and being unapologetically herself."
ESPNw

"A powerful sentiment that sums up not only her own struggles, but those of so many minorities in America."

The Daily Beast

"It's clear that Muhammad has become an icon beyond the realm of sports.... Ibtihaj Muhammad's journey is uniquely her own, and yet, it is one that many people will find relatable, comforting, and inspiring."
Bustle

About the Author

Ibtihaj Muhammad is a fencer and the first Muslim American woman in hijab to compete for the United States in the Olympic Games. She is also the first female Muslim American to medal at the Olympic Games, winning bronze in the women's saber team event. An activist, speaker, and entrepreneur, Ibtihaj has written a memoir, Proud, and inspired the first hijabi Barbie in her likeness. She invites you to visit her online at ibtihajmuhammad.com.

S. K. Ali is the award-winning author of Saints and Misfits and Love from A to Z and the coeditor of an upcoming Eid anthology. Like Faizah and Asiya, she and her sister visited hijab shops every year before the first day of school to choose their proudest colors.

Hatem Aly is an Egyptian-born illustrator whose work has been featured on television and in multiple publications worldwide. Among other books, he illustrated Newbery Honor winning novel The Inquisitor's Tale by Adam Gidwitz. He currently lives in New Brunswick, Canada, with his wife, son, and more pets than people.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Powerful and Compelling Story

N.E. · July 27, 2018

I am very glad to be able to have an insight into Ibtihaj's personal story in fencing. As a sabre fencer and fencing coach myself, I want to be able to support all of my students however they come into the salle, and I feel this book gave me a way to better understand her experience.I am also 100% in love with her hijab under her mask. Even though I am not Muslim, I have had waist length hair for my 20 years of fencing. When I saw her rising towards the 2016 Olympic games, I was floored that it took me so long to realized that it was perfectly possible for me to wear something under my mask to not have to rip my hair out on that darn Velcro! (20 years!!!) Going forward, I am going to find a similar head and hair covering for myself simply because of the utter practicality of the garment. At the same time, I hope that the act can normalize the idea of head coverings -- ANY head coverings -- for my students in the future.Thank you for all you do for fashion and fencing, Ibtihaj!

5.0 out of 5 stars I want my daughter to read this

R. · March 27, 2019

An amazing (modern) story of faith, family, and fighting for what you want and what you believe in. Ibtihaj is truly a role model for girls and boys (as well as adults!) at a time when society is craving more diversity and inspiration. I want my daughter to read this (she's only 3 now). Following Ibtihaj through her successes and failures highlight her determination and resolve. The book is not just about atheltic principles; using her platform for activism reminds us to take from our difficult lessons to better humanity.

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring and deeply truthfull

A.L. · May 27, 2019

After hearing Ibtihad in a podcast episode on Girlboss I HAD to read this book. I connected so much with it, because even if our stories are different, I can identify with her and her journey, whaaaat a journey. Beautiful book, written to be read, simple and honest but comming from an incredibly smart and complex woman who I so trully admire.

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing read

A. · May 6, 2021

I really enjoyed reading this book about Ibtihaj Muhammad's life. She really does a great job walking the readers through the ups and downs of her life. I run a high school book club and this was the book of the month for April. The students talked about how inspirational the book was for them. Would definitely recommend.

4.0 out of 5 stars A story of being a person of color in white spaces and thriving (but also the challenges of it)

K.C. · September 6, 2021

I received a reviewer copy of Proud by Ibtihaj Muhammad from the publisher Hachette Books from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.CW: Racism, Xenophobia, Religious bigotry towards Muslims, Hate Letters and Death ThreatsWhat It’s About: Ibtihaj Muhammad is the first American Muslim Woman to wear Hijab in the Olympics. This is her story of how she got there.What I Loved: I loved reading this book during the Olympics. I am a huge fan of the Olympics and Ibtihaj made Olympic history so reading her story was great. Also, I found this book largely well written, which doesn’t always happen here. I really connected to the drive to do things for college admission and then finding your place in something you love. Ibtihaj writes a lot of being the only person of color in a room and the impact it had on her. Her journey to the Olympics wasn’t a straight forward path, like so many we see, and the role lack of diversity in her sport had on her made her stop several times. This book forced me to consider my own biases and think about how racism plays into sports, especially sports largely dominated by white people. I learned a lot and this story is a story of an American woman doing something extraordinary. I’m also from NJ so I enjoyed placing a lot of the descriptors in her work.What I Didn't Like So Much: I felt like often there were figures who let her down and didn’t have faith in her and then they would show up again, and it was like problem never existed. For instance her final coach was at the Olympics with her, but before then she said he didn’t travel or coach her cause he didn’t believe in her. I just felt like some gaps were there and we didn’t fully get the story of how things reconciled or went awry in case of friendships.Who Should Read This: People who love the Olympics. People who want to read stories about history-making women. People who want to read about people who perhaps don’t get a lot of attention. People who want to read a behind the scenes story.Quick Summary: Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first African American to wear Hijab, shares how she rose to the top in a sport largely populated by wealthy white kids.

5.0 out of 5 stars PROUD OF HER

P. · September 18, 2018

I am very glad that I purchased this book. It really has motivated me, and allowed me to get through some harsh times that I am going through in my life. I have followed her throughout her journey in the Olympics and love seeing her thrive with her own company in Fashion. Her journey to success did not come overnight, and she details the discrimination and harsh comments thrown at her because of her skin color and religious background. Despite all of that, she worked hard, kept her head held up high, and more importantly she refused to give up. She is definitely a SHERO to myself and so many others. Thank you Ms. Muhammad!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars As a fencing parent I got it for my daughter to read

A. · October 31, 2022

My daughter enjoys this book a lot. She read it during our last NAC trip. Fencing parent would understand what I am talking about:-) Believe me my kid does not enjoy reading nearly as much as she enjoys YouTube, so seeing her carrying this book around with her to read at the airport and during the flight already made me super happy …

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!

U. · January 19, 2020

Everyone should read Ibtihaj’s story, one of adversity and triumph. Her clarity and transparency are refreshingly honest in her assessment of race relations, intolerance of ‘difference’ and struggle to find her voice while remaining true to herself and who God created her to be. Phenomenal woman - phenomenal read!

Good Read

F.A. · December 26, 2018

If you want to find out about what life is like for Muslim women, living in the US, then I would recommend this book. Ibtihaj has written an honest and thought-provoking book, as a fellow Muslim author I'm recommending this book to my friends.Farhat AminBolo AuthorBelief in Allah: reasons why you should believe in GodThe Quran, the miracle given to Prophet Muhammad (saw)Child Loss, Miscarriage & Bereavement; a Muslim mother's perspective

Well Written, Amazing Story!

A.C. · April 19, 2020

I bought this for my eldest niece as a gift. I just read the first few sentences and was amazed. It is well written. My niece will be opening her gift this Eid. I will be sure to borrow it from her and read the rest of it! Highly recommend reading this book about an amazing inspirational women! This book is for everyone and anyone. If you can read, you MUST read this!

Such a inspirational and brave story loved!

L. · October 1, 2018

Such an inspiration story, I looooved this book. I could really relate and i enjoyed every part of it. Thank you for paving the way for others Ibtihaj, cannot wait to meet you one day.

easy read, great inspirational story

S. · September 6, 2018

Loved her unique lens on the world and her story of finding her way!

Very inspiring

T.R. · August 12, 2018

Very inspiring. The book applies to anybody that feels left out like they dont have a seat at the table. It is very inspiring to hear how she overcame the massive challenges in front of her.

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