Dickens & Rumi
Cover of LOVE, HATE AND OTHER FILTERS

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LOVE, HATE AND OTHER FILTERS

Samira Ahmed

Maya deals with the struggles of living the life she wants versus the one her Indian Muslim parents want for her. (Ages 14 to 17)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to teens because of mature themes involving Islamophobia, terrorism stereotypes, family conflict, harassment, and emotional distress, alongside teenage romance and identity development. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • Religious themes4/5
  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Diverse representation4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

The aftermath of a terrorist attack involves death, which deeply affects the protagonist.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Injuries from the attack are referenced but not described in gratuitous detail.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Contains some instances of racially charged language directed at the protagonist.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Contains minor LGBTQIA themes or supporting characters.

Religious themes4/5
Why this rating?

Islam, Muslim identity, religious practice, prejudice, and family expectations are prominent and thoughtfully explored.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

A teenage crush and developing romantic relationship are central, with kissing and relationship uncertainty.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Threats, harassment, fear of violence, and the possibility of being targeted create sustained emotional tension.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild romantic tension and occasional kissing.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Very minor references to social drinking.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

A terrorist attack is a central plot point; while the violence isn't graphic, it is intense and impacts the narrative.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Speaking up against prejudice and confronting fear require moral courage; the story distinguishes bravery from reckless behavior.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Maya's filmmaking and storytelling provide a strong creative outlet and shape her perspective, even though creative problem-solving is not the novel's main focus.

Diverse representation4/5
Why this rating?

Indian American and Muslim perspectives are central, with nuanced attention to culture, faith, family, and belonging.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

The novel offers meaningful insight into Muslim American identity, Islamophobia, stereotyping, and the effects of media narratives.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Interpersonal relationships are handled with empathy and care.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong messages reject stereotyping and Islamophobia while supporting empathy, identity, accountability, family communication, and standing against injustice.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Maya is a thoughtful, driven role model who faces adversity with resilience.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. What beliefs or religious ideas appear in the story? How do they influence the characters?
  3. Which choice in LOVE, HATE AND OTHER FILTERS would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in LOVE, HATE AND OTHER FILTERS, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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