Hidden In Silence

Fourteen-year-old Zayn Musa grows up in a deeply religious Muslim family in Lagos. As the only son and last child, his parents expect him to grow into a strong, respected man who will one day lead the family. His father sends him to a strict all-boys Islamic school, believing it will protect him from "bad influences" and keep him pure.
But Zayn has been carrying a secret for years.
He feels different from other boys. While his classmates talk about girls and act tough, Zayn feels something he cannot explain-feelings he knows his family and community would never accept. Terrified of disappointing his parents and bringing shame to his family, he hides this part of himself from everyone.
Everyone except Sadiq, his loyal best friend.
As Zayn moves through his teenage years, he struggles with religion, family expectations, friendship, and the pressure of society. Every prayer, every family gathering, and every day at school reminds him that the person he truly is might never be accepted.

NovelToon got authorization from Sharon Ronnie to publish this work, the content is the author's own point of view, and does not represent the stand of NovelToon.