Land of No Regrets by Sadi Muktadir is a powerful and emotionally resonant coming-of-age novel that explores the complexities of faith, identity, and friendship within the confines of a strict religious institution. Set in a rural Ontario Madrasa, the story follows four students—Nabil, Maaz, Nawaaz, and Farid—who, despite their vastly different backgrounds, find kinship and hope as they navigate the rigid and sometimes stifling environment of Al Haque Islamic Academy.

The novel delves into the boys' struggles with the weight of religious expectations, their longing for freedom, and their desire to rebel against the rules that govern their lives. When they uncover the diary of a former student, Cynthia Lewis, they are inspired by her words and, in turn, hatch a daring plan to escape their confines. This pivotal moment in the story marks a turning point for the characters, pushing them to confront their desires and the consequences of their choices.

Muktadir strikes a delicate balance between humor and poignancy, bringing warmth to the boys' friendship and offering a compassionate examination of their internal and external struggles. Land of No Regrets is an evocative and thought-provoking novel that thoughtfully tackles issues of faith, personal freedom, and the importance of finding one's true path, making it a compelling read for those interested in stories about identity and resilience.

I really wanted to like this book but I struggled so much to get into it I almost DNF, which I rarely do. The writing wasn't terrible, I think I might not be very familiar with Muslim culture and didn't understand many of the references. Some bits were interesting but ended up having boring conclusions so I skimmed most pages, to be honest. I don't think it's a bad book, maybe just not for me.

Thanks to Hanover Square Press for an advanced copy of Land of No Regrets.

This was such a unique coming-of-age story. I'm so glad I saw HTP talking about it and sharing more about this book so I decided to give it a try. It was beautifully written and so different from what I usually read.

Thank you Netgalley & Hanover Square Press for an eARC ♥️

Ah, the joys and pains of growing up! 'The Land of No Regrets' transported me back to my own teenage years, navigating identity, friendship, and the quest for independence. I couldn't help but root for Nabil, Maaz, Nawaaz, and Farid as they formed an unbreakable bond amidst the strict rules of their madrasa. Their discovery of Cynthia Morgan's diary sparks a journey that resonated deep within me - the desire to break free from expectations and forge our own paths.

I love how this book tackles complex themes with humor, heart, and hope. It's a reminder that our experiences, though unique, share a common humanity. I found myself reflecting on my own regrets and triumphs, and the friendships that shaped me. 'The Land of No Regrets' is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of youth. It's a book that will stay with me, inspiring me to embrace life's ups and downs with courage and compassion.♥️