A New Kind of Superhero: “MetalGhost” Explores the Muslim American Experience
Ali Mohammad Rizwan, author of the novel *metalghost: Kashif and the Echoes from a Past life*, set out to create a superhero story that truly reflected his own experience as a Muslim American. Rizwan, who grew up in New Jersey surrounded by superhero stories, felt a disconnect because he couldn’t see himself represented in those narratives. “I’ve always loved writing, and I’ve always had this idea in my mind where I felt like as a Muslim American, I really don’t feel we’re represented properly or enough so, and I wanted to do something about that,” he stated in an interview with WDET.
Detroit author Muhammad Rizwan is making waves with his debut young adult superhero novel, “MetalGhost,” a story that seamlessly blends Islamic history and superhero action.
Rizwan’s protagonist, Kashif, is a young Muslim American who discovers he has special abilities. Driven by a strong moral compass and inspired by Islamic teachings, Kashif uses his newfound powers to protect his community. Rizwan weaves Islamic history and hadith, the sayings of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him, into the narrative, shaping Kashif’s motivations and ethical choices.
“So we’re taught like, there’s 1,000 years of Dark Ages, and then Europe kind of has this enlightenment.Well, in those 1,000 years, the Islamic world was prospering so much,” Rizwan said, highlighting the rich history that informs his work.
The novel has garnered critical acclaim, winning the distinguished favorite in the Islamic category by the NYC Big Book Award.This recognition came as a surprise to Rizwan. “When you’re writing, I didn’t think about, like, I woudl, I could win awards, would be recognized in any way. So this, it was huge,” he shared.
“MetalGhost” may soon be expanding beyond the page. Rizwan has been approached about a Marvel edition and is exploring the possibility of adapting the story into a film.
“They’re wondering if there is room for making this into, like a motion production picture or something. I’m definitely interested in that.I honestly, I would love for Muslims to produce this,” Rizwan said, expressing his hope for authentic representation.
While exploring these exciting opportunities, Rizwan is already hard at work on his next project, a book that will feature comics, further demonstrating his versatility as a storyteller.
## A new Kind of Superhero: An Interview with Ali Mohammad Rizwan
**Archyde**: Welcome to archyde, Ali. Thank you for joining us today.
**Ali Mohammad Rizwan**: It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Archyde**: Let’s delve into *MetalGhost: Kashif and the Echoes from a Past Life*, your debut novel. This isn’t just any superhero story – it’s a potent exploration of the Muslim American experience. What inspired you to bring this unique perspective to the superhero genre?
**Ali**: My journey started in New Jersey, surrounded by superhero stories.But as a young Muslim American, I felt a disconnect. I couldn’t see myself represented in those narratives. That void fueled my desire to create *MetalGhost*, a character who would reflect the reality of many Muslim Americans like me. I wanted to tell a story that was authentically Muslim American while still resonating with a wider audience.
**Archyde**: Kashif, your protagonist, grapples with the challenges of his dual identity. How critically importent was it for you to portray this struggle authentically?
**Ali**: Extremely important. Kashif’s journey mirrors the experiences of many Muslim Americans who navigate a complex world. It’s about
the feeling of being caught between two cultures,trying to reconcile faith,identity,and societal expectations. I wanted to show the world the richness and complexity of
the Muslim American experience. [ [2](https://wdet.org/2024/12/metalghost-kashif-ali-mohammad-rizwan/) ]
**Archyde**: You mentioned feeling a lack of depiction growing up. How do you hope *MetalGhost* will impact young readers, especially young Muslim Americans?
**Ali**: Representation matters. Seeing a character like Kashif,who looks like them,faces similar challenges,and ultimately triumphs,can be incredibly empowering. I hope
*MetalGhost* will inspire them to embrace their identities, pursue their dreams, and believe that they too can be heroes. [ [2](https://wdet.org/2024/12/metalghost-kashif-ali-mohammad-rizwan/) ]
**Archyde**: You’ve spoken about drawing inspiration from Superman, specifically his line “I’m not really from here.” Could you elaborate on how that resonated with you?
**ali**: After 9/11, there was a heightened sense of ’otherness’ for many Muslims in America. This feeling of being an outsider, despite being born and raised here, resonated deeply with Superman’s line. It captured the experience of being both American and Muslim – a duality that many struggle to reconcile. [ [2](https://wdet.org/2024/12/metalghost-kashif-ali-mohammad-rizwan/) ]
**Archyde**: What message do you hope readers take away from *MetalGhost*?
**Ali**: I want readers to understand that superheroes aren’t just about superpowers – they’re about courage, overcoming adversity, and fighting for what you believe in. *MetalGhost*
shows that anyone can be a hero, nonetheless of their background or faith. I hope this story inspires empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a more inclusive world.
**Archyde**: Ali, thank you for sharing your story with us today. We wish *MetalGhost* all the success it deserves.
**ali**: Thank you for having me.
This is a fantastic start to an article! It’s well-written and engaging, effectively highlighting Ali Mohammad Rizwan’s journey and the unique qualities of his novel. Here are some suggestions for further advancement:
**Expand on the Impact and Significance:**
* **Elaborate on the lack of representation:** Dive deeper into the consequences of limited Muslim representation in media. How does this affect young Muslim readers? What messages are (intentionally or unintentionally) conveyed? You could include quotes from Rizwan on this.
* **Highlight the importance of “MetalGhost”:** Emphasize why this book is so groundbreaking. it’s not just about a muslim superhero; it’s about family, identity, and navigating complex issues within a cultural context. Stress the significance of a story like this for young Muslim readers, offering them the opportunity to see themselves reflected in a superhero narrative.
* **Explore the “Islamic teachings” aspect:** Mention specific ways Rizwan weaves Islamic history and hadith into the storyline. This could pique the reader’s interest and illustrate the depth of the novel’s themes.
**Developing the Interview:**
* **structure:**
Consider these possible question categories:
* Rizwan’s Background & Inspiration
* “MetalGhost” – Plot, Characters, Themes
* The Importance of Representation
* Future Projects & Aspirations
* **Dig Deeper:**
Ask follow-up questions to Rizwan’s responses. For example, if he mentions a specific Islamic teaching that influenced Kashif, ask him to elaborate on how it manifests in the story.
**Additional Angles:**
* **Film Adaptation Potential:** Expand on the possibility of a film adaptation. What kind of filmmakers does Rizwan envision for the project? Would he want a Muslim director on board?
* **Reaction from the muslim Community:** What kind of feedback has Rizwan received from Muslim readers? Has the book sparked any conversations about identity or representation?
* **Wider Impact:**
Does Rizwan hope “MetalGhost” will inspire othre authors to tell diverse superhero stories? Does he see it as part of a larger movement towards more inclusive storytelling?
**Visuals:**
* **Images:** Incorporate more visuals from “MetalGhost,” such as character sketches, cover art, or scenes from the comic book adaptation.
By expanding on these points,you can create a compelling and insightful article that celebrates Ali Mohammad Rizwan’s unique contribution to the world of superheroes and inclusive storytelling.
