M.O. Yuksel

Author • Educator • Speaker

M.O. Yuksel

Author • Educator • Speaker

M.O. Yuksel

Author • Educator • Speaker

Photo Credit Peggy Doyle

Hello, my name is Munevver Olgun Yuksel.

I also go by the nickname, Mindy. Munevver means light or enlightened, and it is a traditional name in Muslim countries, such as Uzbekistan and Turkey, where I am from. I go by my initials for my books.

My author name is M.O. Yuksel.

How to pronounce my name
More about me

Release Date: 03/23/2021
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This personable, sensory love letter to a range of children’s mosque experiences will engage new learners and resonate with those already familiar. Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

Release Date: 03/01/2022
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Who could not love a book about a girl whose first spoken word was “read”? Add this biography to any collection looking to be well rounded when it comes to women’s history. School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Release Date: 02/20/2024
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An exceptionally warm and illuminating celebration. Muslim children around the world observe and celebrate Ramadan in this uplifting, joy-filled picture book. Rich in color, detail, and storytelling, Aly’s dynamic digital illustrations capture ethnically diverse Muslims of all ages coming together to pray, perform acts of kindness, and savor communal feasts. Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

Release Date: 04/16/2024
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A gift to all readers! Readers who celebrate Eid al-Adha will enjoy seeing their annual tradition, while readers who do not practice Islam will get a peek into a modern way to celebrate an ancient holiday. Young readers will enjoy the colorful illustrations and following the journey Sami takes with his younger sister Sara throughout the day. Adults will love to use this story as a model to broach conversations about traditions, as well as deeper themes of loss, philanthropy, and homelessness. VERDICT: An easy recommendation for all libraries. Add it to elementary and high school shelves. School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW

Release Date: 09/30/2025
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Ulugh Beg’s curiosity burned as bright as the stars. He yearned to count every star in the sky, every day in a year, and to know why the seasons change. Fueled by his deep faith, Ulugh Beg’s quest for knowledge led to the creation of new schools, the world’s largest observatory and star catalog, and innovative tools to better chart the secrets of the skies. Although some doubted him, he never stopped searching for answers. And because of his determination, our understanding of the world has changed—forever.