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Description
Readers learn about the Islamic observance of Ramadan in this charming story of a young Muslim girl determined to do the right thing during her first Ramadan fast.
Ramadan is coming and Leena is excited. Although she is too young to fast every day during the Muslim religious festival, Leena decides to fast each Friday instead. When Leena receives an invitation to a party which happens to fall on Friday, she has a dilemma. She doesn't want to miss the party, but she doesn't want to miss fasting either. So Leena decides to go to the party, but not eat or drink anything at all. Later, she will join her family for the meal known as iftar, when the daily fast is broken. But when Leena, who is the only Muslim at the party, sees her friends enjoying fresh lemonade and chocolate cake, her stomach starts to growl and her head begins to hurt. Will she keep her Ramadan fast?
Author Asma Mobin-Uddin and illustrator Laura Jacobsen create a story that anyone can connect with while also teaching readers about Ramadan in this Parents' Choice Award book.
About the Author
Asma Mobin-Uddin, of Pakistani descent, was born and raised in the United States. An active member of the Muslim American community, she is president of the Ohio chapter of a national Muslim advocacy organization. She lives in Columbus, Ohio.
Laura Jacobsen has illustrated a number of books, including My Brother Loved Snowflakes by Mary Bahr and Animal Mischief by Rob Jackson. She lives in the desert Southwest.
Praise For…
"The blend of the upbeat and challenging moments will spark discussion, and a final note fills in more about the holy month." —Booklist
"Functions beautifully as both mirror for Muslim-American children and window for their non-Muslim friends. . . . A worthwhile addition to the still-too-sparse literature for children about Muslim-Americans. (author's note)" —Kirkus Reviews
"The author takes a realistic situation and addresses it in such a manner that those not familiar with Ramadan will have a better understanding of the holy month." —Library Media Connection
"This is a beautiful tale of a child grasping her identity yet being able to embrace the differences around her. The story also embodies the forging of community spirit. This is a perfect resource for teaching about choices, sharing, and empathy." -School Library Journal