Comprehensive Review of Love From A to Z by S.K. Ali

Literature Reviews - 2025

Comprehensive Review of Love From A to Z by S.K. Ali

Introduction

Love From A to Z by S.K. Ali is a poignant and beautifully written contemporary YA novel that explores themes of faith, identity, love, chronic illness, and social justice. Told through the alternating journal entries of Zayneb Malik, a passionate Muslim activist, and Adam Chen, a quiet artist struggling with multiple sclerosis (MS), the novel offers a deeply introspective and moving love story.

Set primarily in Doha, Qatar, the novel captures the magic of unexpected connections, the power of standing up against injustice, and the struggle of balancing anger with grace. With its unique narrative structure, engaging characters, and exploration of faith and resilience, Love From A to Z stands out as a must-read for contemporary YA lovers.

Plot & Themes

  1. The "Marvels and Oddities" Structure

One of the book’s most distinctive elements is its narrative structure, inspired by a real-life historical manuscript (The Marvels of Creation and the Oddities of Existence). Both Zayneb and Adam record their “marvels” (things that inspire them) and “oddities” (things that frustrate them) in their journals. This format:
✅ Enhances character depth by revealing their innermost thoughts.
✅ Creates a unique rhythm to the storytelling.
✅ Mirrors real-life emotions, where moments of joy and struggle exist side by side.

  1. Islamophobia, Social Justice & Identity

Zayneb’s story is deeply rooted in activism. After standing up to a racist, Islamophobic teacher in the U.S., she is suspended from school and sent to Doha, Qatar to stay with her aunt. The novel doesn’t shy away from:

  • Microaggressions and discrimination faced by Muslim students.
  • The emotional toll of constantly fighting for justice.
  • The balance between anger and effective activism.

Zayneb’s fury is raw and justified, making her one of the most relatable and powerful heroines in contemporary YA fiction.

  1. Chronic Illness & Self-Acceptance

Adam’s storyline brings much-needed representation of chronic illness (multiple sclerosis) in YA literature. Diagnosed with MS, Adam struggles with:

  • Hiding his condition from his grieving father.
  • Coming to terms with his changing future.
  • Navigating life with an unpredictable illness.

His journey is heart-wrenching yet hopeful, showing that illness does not define a person—it’s part of their story, not the whole of it.

  1. Love, Romance & Faith

The romance between Zayneb and Adam is beautifully written—slow, respectful, and full of chemistry. Unlike typical YA romances that rely on physical intimacy, this one is built on:

  • Intellectual and emotional connection.
  • Shared values and mutual respect.
  • A deep understanding of each other’s struggles.

Their love story is deeply intertwined with Islamic principles—they don’t touch before marriage, and their relationship is rooted in compatibility and commitment rather than fleeting attraction.

  1. Grief & Family Bonds

Both protagonists are grappling with loss:

  • Adam lost his mother to MS and struggles with his father’s grief.
  • Zayneb recently lost her grandmother, leaving her with unanswered questions.

The book portrays grief as a journey, showing how it shapes and reshapes relationships over time.

Character Development

Zayneb Malik (Fierce & Unapologetic)

✅ Passionate & activist-minded—never stays silent in the face of injustice.
✅ Struggles with anger but learns to channel it constructively.
✅ Cares deeply for her family and friends.
✅ Undergoes a beautiful journey of self-reflection and growth.

Adam Chen (Gentle & Thoughtful)

✅ An artist, a maker, and a dreamer—channeling his emotions into his work.
✅ Grapples with his MS diagnosis but remains hopeful.
✅ His quiet strength contrasts beautifully with Zayneb’s fiery personality.
✅ His relationship with his little sister, Hanna, is heartwarming.

Supporting Cast

  • Hanna (Adam’s little sister) — A sweet, intelligent, and loving presence in his life.
  • Aunt Nandy (Zayneb’s aunt) — Provides wisdom and comfort as Zayneb struggles with injustice.
  • Zayneb’s friends & Adam’s social circle — Offer glimpses into supportive, diverse friendships.

Writing Style & Pacing

S.K. Ali’s writing is:
✅ Lyrical yet grounded—balancing poetic introspection with realistic dialogue.
✅ Emotionally charged—readers feel every ounce of frustration, love, and hope.
✅ Fast-paced but well-balanced—the dual perspectives keep the story engaging.

At times, the pacing fluctuates—some sections feel slower, while others move too quickly. However, this doesn’t take away from the novel’s emotional impact.

Cultural & Religious Representation

Love From A to Z offers exceptional Muslim representation, portraying:
✅ Islam as a natural, integrated part of life—characters pray, reflect, and follow religious guidelines.
✅ A diverse portrayal of Muslims—Zayneb is Pakistani-Trinidadian, Adam is Chinese-Finnish.
✅ Authentic struggles with discrimination, faith, and self-expression.

Unlike many YA novels that depict Muslim characters questioning their faith, this book celebrates faith as a source of strength and comfort.

Criticism & Weaknesses

🔹 Some side characters lack depth—Adam’s friends, while present, don’t feel essential to the story.
🔹 The plot isn’t high-stakes—while emotionally rich, it’s more introspective than action-driven.
🔹 Certain conflicts resolve too neatly—particularly in Zayneb’s activism arc.

Despite these minor flaws, the book remains deeply compelling.

Final Thoughts & Rating

Love From A to Z is a powerful, heartfelt, and beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly blends romance, activism, chronic illness, and faith. It’s an important and necessary book in contemporary YA literature, offering a rare, authentic portrayal of Muslim teens while tackling real-world issues with sensitivity and nuance.