And so What If We Are Different?

About the Book

Maryam and Tiffany are fictitious characters with youthful curiosity about the other’s religion of Christianity and Islam. The story is simply written, presenting a vivid but lighthearted discovery of similar doctrinal beliefs between the two religions. They explore some of the myths and misconceptions through illustrious examples and eventually agree having different beliefs doesn’t mean they can’t be friends. In today’s world where religious tension caused by expanding communities with different cultures and misinformation of religious beliefs and practices, the book is needed to teach children and young adults their religion is not as dissimilar or based on terrorist propaganda seen on headline news. The aim of this story book is to promote racial and interreligious harmony and integration. Educating the young, it is hoped, will help develop a more peaceful environment worldwide.

About the Author

Joy Omara was born into a Roman Catholic family. In 1997, she began a search for alternative religions, which included Islam, hoping to find greater spiritual fulfillment. She converted to Islam in 1999. This enabled her delve into the Holy Books with greater understanding borne out of practicing what was read. In 2004, Joy reverted back to practicing as a Roman Catholic, having found her spiritual destiny. She has retained her respect and admiration of Islam as a religion of peace and tolerance. Joy has had some short fiction stories, poetry, and articles published in local magazines and newspapers. She is married, with children, and is a lawyer.