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AnisaBezak was born in Melbourne, Australia. She discovered Islam while researchingvarious religions for a book plot, and converted in 1997. Since then, she has devotedher life to studying, teaching and writing about Islam. During this time, she hasalso managed to acquire a small family and a large number of cats. MajdiMansoor and the Book of Miracles is her first novel.
Just another bunch of Goliaths, a brave young man declares in Bezak's big-hearted, faith-centering dystopian future fantasy, set in a 2212 where the secular world, ruled by the Tanas Corporation, has outlawed religion, cracked down on curiosity itself, and stolen the loving patriarch from 12-year-old orphan Jacob's new adopted family. Jacob, a city boy, is new to faith, though his discovery of a copy of the Quran-a true rarity-has roused in him a deep sense of connection to Islam. Bezak's debut connects contemporary political, cultural, and religious tensions-Jacob is an orphan because the Tanas Corp forcibly separates the children of the enemy in labor camps-with classic YA adventure storytelling, and a dystopian edge. Its heart is an exciting story of standing up against tyranny-and, for Jacob, of finding a path toward faith. Jacob and his new brothers face a most dangerous adventure, taking to heart the words of young Majdi: How often a small force has defeated a large army with Allah's permission. Bezak writes warmly of family, faith, and camaraderie, and the story builds to surprises and betrayals. Scenes of action and suspense have power as the Goliath-facing heroes plot to infiltrate a mountaintop research facility. This engaging YA fantasy pits faith and family against a tyrannical corporation. Publisher's Weekly
