Ramadan: Islamic Holy Month

Children's Literature

This is an accurate, simply written, and well-photographed discussion of the basic practices and beliefs around Ramadan. As more and more Muslim children come to class talking about this holiday observance at home, it will be helpful to have this type of book in school and classroom libraries. The photos include families in traditional and American-style clothing and surroundings, pre-teen children politely refusing snacks during the day while they are fasting, and large meals of ethnic food to break the fast in the evening. There are photos of a mosque in a Muslim country where hundreds of men are kneeling in prayer, as well as holiday carnival rides in Muslim communities where the Eid al-Fitr feast at the end of Ramadan is a major social event. One page features American Muslim Hakeem Olajuwon, an NBA superstar who played even while he was fasting. One important activity for Muslims during Ramadan is helping people who are poor. There are directions for decorating a collection jar to save or gather money—a craft that transcends any specific religious connection. This book also offers an introduction to a small glossary, resource list, and simple index. The Council on Islamic Education was a consultant for the book that is one of "Capstone's First Facts—Holidays and Culture series." The series also features Chinese New Year, Day of the Dead, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. 2006, Capstone Press, Ages 6 to 10.
—Karen Leggett