A RAMADAN TO REMEMBER
Ramadan is almost here! It’s Zain’s favorite time of the year.
Well, it usually is. After a recent move and with no mosque or Islamic school in his new neighborhood, will Zain find a new Muslim friend to celebrate with him?
Children will learn what makes the ninth Islamic month special from pre-Ramadan decorating, the importance of fasting and volunteering in the community, and the festivities and prayers that continue through the month, ending with Eid al-Fitr.
Marzieh A. Ali and Najwa Awatiff join together to celebrate their respective cultures as Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world.
by Marzieh Abbas illustrated by Anu Chouhan
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This lovely picture book shares the specifics of the Ramadan holiday with readers of all backgrounds, while illustrating the very real emotions of one boy who feels alienated from his peers. . . . [A] heartfelt and detailed book to share with all children, whether or not they celebrate Ramadan themselves.
starred
School Library Journal
A great addition to any home or school library. Zain’s favorite festival is Ramadan but his family has moved and in their new neighborhood, there is no mosque where Zain can visit and engage in all his favorite Ramadan activities, and he knows no other Muslim families. What is Zain to do? He decides to build his own mosque with a few cardboard boxes and a lot of ingenuity! Before long, kids from the neighborhood are pitching in and he is teaching them all about the traditions and rituals of the Ramadan season.
Marzieh Ali and Najwa Awatiff have created a beautiful story that shares their cultural heritage and religious practices. Readers will not only appreciate Zain’s creativity and initiative but will come away with a deeper understanding of Ramadan. The back matter is rich with detailed information and I especially love the spreads titled “Zain’s Ramadan Essentials” and “Make Your own Ramadan Treat Bags”!
Jyoti Gopal
RAMADAN TO REMEMBER is a wonderful pick for all kids! RAMADAN TO REMEMBER is an engaging, relatable story about a child who moves to a new neighborhood and worries he won’t be able to celebrate Ramadan without the mosque and friends from his old community. Through collaboration and creativity, he is able to make it a special celebration, and even meets a new friend. The story is heartwarming and reinforces the importance of taking pride in one’s own identity and culture, and it also educates those who are unfamiliar with Ramadan. The illustrations are colorful and sure to delight young readers.