Some events feel ordinary.
And then there are days that gently settle into your heart and stay there.
On the 23rd November, we gathered for something truly special: the official launch of “Little Nina and the Virtues of Fatimah az-Zahra.” And from the moment the doors opened, you could feel this quiet excitement in the air, the kind that tells you you’re witnessing the beginning of something meaningful.
A Father’s Love That Filled the Room
One of the most touching moments of the entire event came from Engku Emran, Aleesya’s father. He stood on stage, trying to hold it together, but his emotions said everything.
He spoke directly to his daughter—softly, sincerely:
“Aleesya, with every difficulty and mistake, don’t be scared to run back to me.”
It was a kind reminder every child deserves to hear: mistakes are part of life, but home is always a place you can return to.
He shared how raising a daughter in today’s world comes with its own fears. Yet, in the Muslim tradition, we’ve been blessed with a role model as astonishing as Fatimah az-Zahra (r.a.). And somehow, despite her beauty and strength, she’s rarely highlighted for young children.
That clarity, paired with his deep love for his own daughter, became part of the seed that grew into this book.
A Dream That Began with a Girl Who Loved Cats and Books
Here’s something sweet many didn’t know:
Before Aleesya wanted to be an author, she was simply a girl who loved animals, especially cats, and who spent weekends wandering through Kinokuniya picking up new reads. Her favourite author? Colleen Hoover.
Writing wasn’t some sudden spark. It was the natural next step for a girl whose heart already belonged to stories. By the time she was around 15 years old, she knew she wanted to write one day. But life moved quickly, and she found herself introduced to Tertib Publishing during the same period when reading seerah with her father became a daily comfort, especially when caring for her grandmother in 2023.
Somewhere in that quiet grief, something beautiful took root. A tenderness toward the story of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) and his daughter, Fatimah (r.a.). A relationship built on love, respect, and gentleness.
And she felt it, deeply.
Writing a Book in Between IGCSE Prep
One thing everyone admired was Aleesya’s honesty. When asked about her writing process, she admitted it happened during one of the busiest seasons of her life—right in the middle of IGCSE preparations.
But here’s the thing: she never felt burdened.
Writing felt like breathing, something she genuinely enjoyed.
It took her about four months of writing, revising, weaving virtues into child-friendly storytelling (which wasn’t easy), and finding the balance between simplicity and depth. Her mother, Erra Fazira, gave her thoughtful feedback, while her dad checked if the language was just right for children.
Bit by bit, chapter by chapter… Little Nina came to life.
And seeing the final printed book for the first time?
She said her dream came true much earlier than she ever expected.
Introducing Children to Fatimah az-Zahra (r.a.) From a Young Age
One of the most important hopes behind this book is simple but powerful: that children will meet Fatimah az-Zahra (r.a.) not as a distant historical figure, but as someone they can look up to. Someone whose virtues can shape their hearts.
Her bravery especially resonated with Aleesya. She shared how Fatimah’s (r.a.) courage—how she stood up for her father—made her feel seen too. Made her believe that she too can be a brave daughter who can protect her parents.
Her parents added their own reflections, especially on modesty, which is one of Fatimah’s (r.a.) most beautiful traits. Her mother reminded us that modesty isn’t just behaviour, but a shield that earns respect and protects dignity.
And her father? He hopes that the akhlaq of Fatimah (r.a.) will continue to live in their daughter’s life, guiding her just like a gentle lamp in the dark.
For the Young Writers Who Dream Quietly Too
During the sharing session, Aleesya was asked to share her advice to aspiring writers—kids who want to write but don’t know where to start.
Her answer was so simple, but it hit home:
“Just start. Start small—one paragraph, one little story. If this is something you’ve always wanted to do, tell someone. And believe that one day, it will come true.”
There was something incredibly hopeful about that. It wasn’t loud or poetic—it was real. And real advice is the kind that lingers.
Her parents added that writing has always been her quiet way of expressing herself. She’s introverted, shy even. But on paper? She breathes. And they hope she continues writing and grows into a respected author with her own voice.
What’s Next for Aleesya?
Right now, nothing’s officially planned, and yet her mind is overflowing with possibilities.
Maybe a sequel. Maybe another children’s book. Maybe something slightly more advanced to help teenagers strengthen their English.
Whatever it becomes, one thing is clear: she’s dreaming big, and we’re here, cheering her on.
A Launch Filled With Heart
As the event came to a close, you could feel that sense of shared pride drifting through the room. Not just for the book, but for the journey behind it. A young writer, a supportive family, and a story inspired by one of the most beloved women in Islamic history.
It wasn’t just a launch. It was a milestone wrapped in love, sincerity, and the promise of more to come.
If you haven’t gotten your copy yet, “Little Nina and the Virtues of Fatimah az-Zahra” is now available on our website, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.
And who knows, maybe this book will be the one that lights up the heart of a little reader in your home, too.
