Uzma Jalaluddin is a critically acclaimed and bestselling novelist, playwright, public speaker and teacher. She writes authentic, nuanced and entertaining stories about Muslims, South Asians, and Canadians and is the author of DETECTIVE AUNTY, MUCH ADO ABOUT NADA, THREE HOLIDAYS AND A WEDDING, HANA KHAN CARRIES ON, and AYESHA AT LAST, as well as her first play, THE RISHTA. Her novels have been optioned for film and television by Amazon Studios and Mindy Kaling. In today’s episode, Annmarie welcomes Uzma back to talk about how to write a mystery, how to revise a book, and how to walk in the direction of your wildest dreams.

Episode Sponsors:

Another Story Bookshop – Located in the West end of Toronto, Another Story Bookshop sells a broad range of literature for children, young adults, and adults with a focus on themes of social justice, equity, and diversity. We are a proudly independent bookstore with 30 years of history and a commitment to providing quality customer service. Stop by or shop online at anotherstory.ca.

Blue Heron Books – The unpretentious atmosphere of Blue Heron with its comfy chairs, wood shelving, and creaky floors lends itself to long, slow, browsing sessions. However, under that sleepy atmosphere vibrates a strong pulse. In its storied, thirty-plus-year history, Blue Heron Books has played host to and continues to showcase a veritable who’s who of the world’s literary community. Two-time winner of The Libris Award (Best Bookstore in Canada), Blue Heron is a hub for the community and a bastion of friendly chaos where everyone is welcome. Stop by or shop online at blueheronbooks.com.

Books by Uzma Jalaluddin:

DETECTIVE AUNTY

MUCH ADO ABOUT NADA

THREE HOLIDAYS AND A WEDDING, co-authored with Marissa Stapley

HANA KHAN CARRIES ON

AYESHA AT LAST

Other Titles Mentioned in This Episode:

Blood Betrayal, by Ausma Zehanat Khan 

The Unquiet Dead, by Ausma Zehanat Khan

Here’s a trailer for The Good Place.

Follow Uzma Jalauddin:

Instagram: @uzmajalaluddin

Twitter: @UzmaWrites

Facebook: @UzmaJalaluddinAuthor

Substack: @uzmajalaluddin

uzmajalaluddin.com

**Writing Workshops and Wish Fulfillment: 

If you liked this conversation and are interested in writing abroad, consider joining Annmarie and co-leader Athena Dixon for a writing retreat in Italy in September, 2025.

You can travel to a beautiful place, meet other wise women, and write your own stories. We’d love to help you make your wishes come true. 

This will sell out. Act now and join us!

Or for women interested in an online Saturday morning writing circle, you can sign up here or message Annmarie to learn more.

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