Visceral and compelling, Ziervogel draws on the traditions of Islamic and Christian mysticism, and on sharp observations of contemporary society, to give a deeply uncomfortable glimpse into the mind of a misfit-turned-extremist.
Juanita Coulson
The Lady
Kauthar is a beautiful book, Ziervogel writes as though each word were a deep consideration, though ... Read morethe prose is sparse. Religion is treated with respect and honesty, highlighting the good and the bad that can come from devotion.
Alice Farrant
We Love This Book
An intriguing and intimate read.
John Lloyd
The Bookbag
Uniquely qualified to write this tale of a woman's conversion to Islam, Ziervogel is able to write and speak Arabic and holds an MA in Arabic Literature. Her portrayal of Kauthar's faith is both sensitively and acutely observed, with fascinating insight into the daily prayers and rituals which make up Islamic life.
Jennifer Acton
For Books' Sake
Ziervogel writes with insight and fluency, articulating a profound empathy with those at the extreme reaches of their endurance. Searingly contemporary, Kauthar sketches out a humane and subtle counterpoint to the distorted debate surrounding religious radicalisation, and in doing so is resonant and timely.
Lettie Kennedy
The Observer
Kauthar, as much an exploration of breakdown and collapse as of the lines between devotion and delusion, faith and fundamentalism, does not shy away from suffering and darkness; instead, as in Magda and Clara's Daughter, Ziervogel goes bravely to the bleakest points of humanity and illuminates them with her lyrical and enthralling prose.
Claire Kohda Hazelton
The Guardian
This is a novel that cuts into the heart of a modern taboo - the white British female who choose to become a Muslim - with sensitivity and insight... Meike Ziervogel grew up in Germany and came to London to study Arabic; her strong, spare writing cuts to the heart of a shocking story.
Kate Saunders
The Times
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