Ramadan

April 1, 2018
Grades 4-6 Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, prayer, and good works, gets a personal and complete treatment here. Khan, whose background is in international law (but who also edited the magazine Muslim Girl), begins with the story of the first time she fasted, at age nine. The event wasn't a complete success (she drank water), but from the first, readers will understand how special this holy time is to her personally as well as to the Islamic world. The handsomely designed book, full of interesting photographs, explains the significance of Ramadan within the context of Islam. It details the requirement of fasting, both in its literal meaning and its expected effects on the spiritual life of individuals and the community. The stories of several children are told, while the wide coverage of Ramadan in a number of parts of the world is a welcome addition. Throughout, Khan's personable tone brings the holiday close, though her Canadian-centric focus may distract American readers. This will serve both those who know little about Ramadan and those who celebrate it.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)

February 1, 2018

Gr 2-5-Khan explains the religious practice to young readers. Filled with vibrant color photographs, the book explains in detail the events and rituals of the spiritual month of the Muslim faith. It is broken into chapters and follows the experiences of several children as well as Olympic fencer, Ibtihaj Muhammad. Muhammad explains how she trains differently during Ramadan. The children share what it is like to fast and the various projects they take on during that time. The book shares holy traditions from countries around the world such as Egypt, Kenya, and India. There are recipes for families to try while they break their fast at sundown. VERDICT This is a comprehensive book of facts and experiences for any child who is learning about what it means to follow Islam. A solid choice for children seeking to learn more about the faith for assignments or to satisfy their own intellectual curiosity.-Kris Hickey, Columbus Metropolitan Library, OH

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2018
This nonfiction volume, part of the Origins series on holidays, introduces Muslims' month of fasting and gives a taste of how it is celebrated around the world.Khan opens the volume with a personal anecdote of her first attempt at fasting, when she was 9 years old, and the lessons she has since learned about the fast. She goes on to explain the main tenets of the Islamic faith and how Ramadan fits into the belief system, including information about lunar calendars as compared to solar calendars. With the basic facts established, the author goes into more detail about the stages of the month of Ramadan, specific ways in which Muslims give back to their communities during the month, and samples of Ramadan traditions from countries around the world. The book is generously illustrated with stock photographs of people of many ethnic backgrounds and nationalities observing Ramadan, as well as places that are important to Muslims. Each chapter ends with a one-page story showcasing one child's experience of Ramadan. Included throughout the book in sidebars are children's quotes about what the month means to them, traditional stories, facts, and recipes. Words defined in the glossary are italicized in the text. The personal perspectives elevate this volume above an average informational book; readers, both non-Muslims and Muslims, can step into the shoes of someone from another background. Wide in scope and personal in presentation, this book is a good choice for learning about Muslims' traditions as expressed in various cultures. (author's note, series editor's note, glossary, resources, index) (Nonfiction. 9-14)

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January 1, 2019
This introduction to Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting and prayer, balances information with personal stories and uses a variety of visual storytelling techniques (sidebars, pull-out quotes, recipes, etc.). Mindfulness of cultural nuances ("there really is no such thing as a single 'Muslim world'"); a chatty, down-to-earth narrative voice; and an attractive, photo-heavy design make the volume both informative and engaging. Bib., glos., ind.

(Copyright 2019 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)