Archive · 24 Jan 2026
Mirza Waheed's Novel Explores Mother's Grief and Faith
Mirza Waheed's new book, Maryam & Son, is about a mom named Maryam who is very worried because her son, Dilawar, has gone missing.
Dilawar is a quiet young man who loves computers.
When he doesn't come home, Maryam thinks the worst and goes to the police.
But then, things take a surprising turn.
Some people think Dilawar might have joined a group called ISIS, which is known for doing bad things.
A video appears online that might show Dilawar with this group, but his mom doesn't believe it.
The story is about Maryam's journey to find her son and deal with her feelings.
It's also about how families support each other in tough times.
The book is not a fast-paced action story but more about the emotions and thoughts of a mother who loves her son very much.
Mirza Waheed's novel Maryam & Son tells the story of Maryam Ali, a British Indian school chef, searching for her missing son Dilawar.
Dilawar, a quiet and introverted 20-year-old, is suspected of joining ISIS after a video surfaces online.
The novel explores themes of grief, loss, identity, and the complexities of faith and belonging.
Maryam's journey is supported by her sisters and a sensitive family liaison officer, Julian Chapman.
The story unfolds slowly, focusing on Maryam's inner trauma and her unwavering faith in Islam.
- Who
- Maryam Ali, a 46-year-old British Indian school chef, and her missing son Dilawar.
- What
- A novel exploring a mother's search for her son, who is suspected of joining ISIS.
- When
- The story is set in the present day, with a mention of the year 2026.
- Where
- The story unfolds in East London, particularly in the suburbs of Walthamstow.
- Why
- The novel delves into themes of grief, loss, identity, and the complexities of faith and belonging.
- Author
- Mirza Waheed
- Title
- Maryam & Son
- Pages
- 264
- Price
- ₹ 699
- Setting
- East London, Walthamstow
- Main Character
- Maryam Ali
- Missing Son
- Dilawar (Dil/Dilly)
- Publisher
- Westland Books