Malaika and the Seven Heavens: A Memoir of My Encounters with Islam

Malaika and the Seven Heavens explores Toyin Falola’s personal journey with Islam, beginning with his early years in Ibadan, Nigeria.Growing up in environments where Islam coexisted with traditional African religions and later living in a predominantly Christian country, he witnessed the complexities of cultural and religious diversity.In this memoir, Falola shares stories of deep understanding, personal development, and the beauty of a faith that transcends language, nationality, and culture. Although faith is a lifelong journey, Falola identifies key moments in his upbringing that shaped his perception of faith, such as observing Islamic prayers, witnessing the significance of pilgrimage, engaging with spiritual leaders, and interacting with both Muslims and non-Muslims.By blending personal observations and reflections with the broader historical and cultural contexts of Islam, the book provides a unique perspective on the lived experiences of Muslims.In addition, Falola’s comparativ