Ramadan is a big idea for little ones to get their heads round, so why not introduce them to the values and ideas of the Holy Month through some cheerful picture books?
Qur’an stories for little hearts – Ramadan and the Qur’an, by Saniyasnain Khan
Suitable for: ages four and over
This title is one of a popular series of books aimed to introduce young kids to the stories of the Qur’an, focusing on the meaning of Ramadan.
Available at Jashanmal, Abu Dhabi Mall (02 644 3869).
My first Ramadan, by Karen Katz
Suitable for: ages four-eight
If your child is particularly interested in fasting, My First Ramadan is a great introduction with a warm and personal style and colourful illustrations. A young boy reads in the Qur’an about Ramadan, and decides that he is old enough to fast every day of the Holy Month too, so after he’s eaten a big breakfast, he doesn’t eat again until it is time for Iftar.
www.amazon.com and selected bookstores.
Under the Ramadan Moon, by Sylvia Whitman
Suitable for: ages four-eight
A beautifully poetic picture book that describes all the family activities that go on during Ramadan with the repeated line, ‘Under the moon, under the moon, under the Ramadan moon.’ The rich pictures show a waxing and waning moon throughout the Holy Month and focus on homely traditions and family values.
www.amazon.com and selected bookstores.
Night of the Moon – A Muslim Holiday Story by Hena Khan
Suitable for: ages four-eight
Seven-year-old Yasmeen, a Pakistani-American girl finds out about why Ramadan changes dates each year according to the Islamic lunar calendar. Her mother explains that the Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar. Throughout the month she enjoys family meals, night-time barbecues and Eid celebrations when Ramadan is over.
Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, by Deborah Heiligman
Suitable for: ages five and over
The combination of interesting photography and simple text means this book manages to convey complex ideas in a way that will appeal to children of all ages. This book is particularly good for non-Muslims too, because it provides a good introduction to the religious holiday, as well as extra information about Islam and even some traditional Ramadan recipes.
Book Corner, Marina Mall (02 681 7662).
