Our Story
The Pen Publishers is an independent publishing company founded by author Sofia Ismail.
The name The Pen is inspired by the Qur’anic verse in Surah Al-Qalam (68:1): “Nun. By the Pen and what they inscribe.” This name reflects a deep belief in the power of writing and storytelling to educate hearts, preserve wisdom, and pass guidance from one generation to the next. The company has published three books by its founder, including It’s Just a Reminder and the children’s titles Hassan & Maryam Explore Surah Ar-Rahman and Hassan & Maryam Explore Surah Al-Fil. It has also produced The Pen Publishers Newsletter, which is distributed in prisons across the UK, USA, and Australia.
Sofia Ismail is an educator, writer, and children’s author with over 15 years of experience teaching English across prisons, colleges, and secondary schools. She holds a BSc/BA (Hons) in Education Studies and Human Psychology, a PGCE in English, and a Certificate in Essential Islamic Studies. She now writes engaging children’s books for Muslim families, helping young readers develop a meaningful connection with the Qur’an.