The following is a list of 10 Muslim children’s books about Ramadan that I’m interested in reading with my kids. I have read some of these books, but not all of them yet. This list is mainly based off the quality of the story, the description, and popularity of the book.
Who Will Help Me Make Iftar? by Asmaa Hussein. Mustafa and his wife have a yearly tradition – they cook iftar for their friends and neighbours on the first day of Ramadan. This year, Mustafa’s wife is sick and can’t help him cook! Will he be able to find others to pitch in and create a meal for everyone to enjoy? A wonderful, rich story about selflessness and generosity! 8.5×11″ paperback, ages 4+
Ramadan Moon by Na’ima B Robert. Ramadan, the month of fasting, doesn’t begin all at once. It begins with a whisper And a prayer And a wish. Muslims all over the world celebrate Ramadan and the joyful days of Eid-ul-Fitr at the end of the month of fasting as the most special time of year. This lyrical and inspiring picture book captures the wonder and joy of this great annual event, from the perspective of a child. Accompanied by Iranian inspired illustrations, the story follows the waxing of the moon from the first new crescent to full moon and waning until Eid is heralded by the first sighting of the second new moon. Written and illustrated by Muslims, this is a book for all children who celebrate Ramadan and those in the wider communities who want to understand why this is such a special experience for Muslims.
Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi. Lailah is in a new school in a new country, thousands of miles from her old home, and missing her old friends. When Ramadan begins, she is excited that she is finally old enough to participate in the fasting but worried that her classmates won’t understand why she doesn’t join them in the lunchroom.
R is for Ramadan by Greg Paprocki. A fun alphabet primer celebrating the month-long Muslim observance of fasting and spiritual awareness.
Rashad’s Ramadan and Eid al-fitr by Lisa Bullard. For Muslims, Ramadan is a time for fasting, prayer, and thinking of others. Rashad tries to be good all month. When it’s time for Eid al-Fitr, he feasts and plays! Find out how people celebrate this special time of year.
Eid Breakfast at Abuela’s by Mariam Saad. Join Sofia and her mom and dad who spend Eid – the Islamic holiday celebrating the end of Ramadan – with her Mexican grandmother, who is not Muslim but chooses to throw them a festive breakfast which includes traditional Mexican food, decorations, and activities.
Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes by Hena Khan. Toddler book of shapes and Islamic traditions: From a crescent moon to a square garden to an octagonal fountain, this breathtaking picture book celebrates the shapes-and traditions-of the Muslim world.
Rami The Ramadan Cat by Robyn Thomas. The spirit of Ramadan is rooted in generosity to family, friends, and neighbours, and this story embodies the spirit of Ramadan beautifully! Saleem has just moved to a new city. On the first night of Ramadan, he finds a scruffy kitten clinging to his backyard fence. Even though Saleem and his family make “lost cat” posters to hang up around their neighbourhood, he secretly hopes they never find the cat’s owner! After all, Rami is Saleem’s only friend in this new place. Ages 4+, 32 pages, softcover Written by Robyn Thomasaway lessons that will last a lifetime. Order now to receive before Ramadan!
Hassan and Aneesa Love Ramadan by Yasmeen Rahim. It is the night before Ramadan and Hassan and Aneesa are excited for it to begin. In Ramadan they will read the Qur’an, give charity, share food with neighbours and try to fast. Follow them on the first day of Ramadan and find out why Hassan and Aneesa love it when the Muslim holy month arrives.
The Gift of Ramadan by Rabiah York. Sophia wants to fast for Ramadan this year. She tries to keep busy throughout the day so she won’t think about food. But when the smell of cookies is too much, she breaks her fast early. How can she be part of the festivities now?
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