Ramadan Moon

By Na'ima B. Robert Illustrated by Shirin Adl


Ramadan Moon
Online price: £11.99
Hardback, 32 pages
Published: 9th July 2009

Category: Cultural Diversity, Picture information, World Religions
Interest age, years: From 4 To 7
Key Stage: RE KS 1&2

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.
In 2009 Ramadan runs from 21st August to 19th September.

A beautiful introduction to Muslim observance, taking readers on an intimate journey from one new moon to the next. The text is reflective, delicate and lyrical and the accompanying illustrations display the richness and vibrancy of the culture. An unusually beautiful book reflecting the essence of Ramadan with warmth and simplicity. - Bookseller

A beautifully designed book which introduces children to the concept of keeping Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr. A perfect introduction for children celebrating Rammadan for the first time, or for anyone who wants to know what makes Ramadan special. - Bookseller

A lyrical picture book which captures the spirit of the festival for young children.
- Oxford Times

With religious beliefs being the root cause of heated intolerance, books like Ramadan Moon address this with simple stories that explain these beliefs. A delightful book for children to understand the beliefs of classmates and friends. - Irish Examiner

This creative and rhythmical book will engage children aged between three and eight years to truly capture the magic of the moon and what it represents in the holy month. A fantastic pre-Ramadan gift to introduce children to the concept of fasting in Ramadan; they will be thrilled with excitement for the month ahead. - Emel

The outstanding feature of the book is that it captures the excitement and ethos that underlie the principles of Ramadan...The flowing text in combination with its striking illustrations makes the book fascinating for young readers and listeners. - Books for Keeps

Roberts's poetic style is captivating and enhanced by Adl's appealing and colourful multimedia illustrations. Throughout the story, the artist depicts the Moon, showing its waxing and waning phases as a family is seen worshipping and rejoicing. - School Library Journal

What I found most remarkable about this book is how beautifully the verse and images mirror both the emotions evoked by the text and the intended significance of this holiday. It works as well for families who celebrate Ramadan as it does for for anyone wishing to understand what it means to more than a billion people worldwide. - Kepler's Review

The importance and beauty of the festival is wonderfully captured in this poetic and pyrical picture book, warmly illustrated with scenes of family and community life. This book provides an illuminating and enriching introduction to all of seeking wider cultural understanding as well as a special and warm experience for those who celebrate Ramadan. This is a book which can be shared with a wide age-range of primary school pupils. - School Librarian

An engaging mix of collage, drawing and text. The text is short and succinct, supporting the portrayal of Ramadan as a time of self-reflection and peace, in which charity andhelping others plays an important role. Although some knowledge of Ramadan is assumed by the creators, the book is still accessible to children reading about ramadan for the first time. - INIS

With a captivating cover and lyrical text, this is an ideal way to explore and understand the beliefs behind Ramadan. I loved the creative artwork. An excellent addition to any school's cultrural diversity collection. - Bookseller

This book may have a dual purpose. It might be used by Muslim children to introduce their traditional beliefs to children of other faiths or none. And it might be used by teachers to open the eyes of non-Muslim children to Islamic beliefs and practices. Children up to and including Year Four would be suitable recipients. Adl’s illustrations are a powerful element in the book’s appeal and are reminiscent of the work of Lauren Child. Everyone must wish this book well. There are few aims in education more worthy than countering Islamophobia in the next generation. - Armadillo Magazine



Publication Details:

Binding: Hardback, 32 pages
ISBN: 9781845079222
Format: 270mm x 214mm

BIC Code: YBCS, YNR
BISAC Code:  JUV017090
Imprint: Frances Lincoln Children's Books


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