June 1, 2012
Grades K-2 In this inviting picture book, the first of a new Holidays and Special Days series, a preschooler talks about his Muslim religion with the focus on Ramadan and the meaning behind the holiday's practice and beliefs. Dad says Ramadan is a time to get closer to Allah. . . . Grown-ups fast between sunrise and sunset. The brightly colored, uncluttered illustrations are true to the boy's viewpoint, at the mosque and at home, and colored boxed inserts explain more about the holiday observance and its meaning, including the role of Muhammad and that the calendar for Muslim holidays follows the moon. The boy tries to be good during the month of Ramadan ( my sister and I don't even fight ), just as he knows it is time to care for the poor. The climax is the big celebration of Eid when Ramadan is over. Young children of all faiths will find lots to talk about, and the back matter extends the text with a bibliography, glossary, and craft suggestions.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)
July 1, 2012
Emma's story reflects her family's African American and Russian American heritage (no mention that Russian Orthodox Easter usually falls on a different date than other Christian sects). Rashad and his Muslim family observe Ramadan. Sarah prepares for her role in asking the "Four Questions." Bright, cheerful illustrations will draw readers to these simple introductions; text boxes provide more details than the young narrators do. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2012 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)