Debutcollection by a young Western Sydney poet, focussed on the hijab, and  exploring the complexities of growing upMuslim in Australia

Maryam Azam's poems take the mysteriesof the hijab as their object of scrutiny. Though shamed and angered by theprejudice towards Muslims the scarf arouses, Azam is also aware of its sensualityand allure, and the power and protection it offers. In 'ABrief Guide to Hijab Fashion', 'Miss Khan Takes off her Hijab' and 'Places I'vePrayed', she reflects on the rich possibilities of the scarf, the moral valuesit embodies, and the commitment required to maintain these values in a secular society.In another section, 'Wallah Bro', she examines the tensions young Muslims experiencewhen negotiating the technology of modern dating. Azam's style is simple anddirect, and informed with humour: it frames as it reveals, showing how ritual confersdignity on gestures and objects.