Aliya's Secret: A Story of Ramadan
by Farida Zaman (Author)
A heartwarming celebration of Ramadan, food, and community
Ramadan is coming, and as Abba and Ammi prepare for their month-long fast, Aliya hugs a secret to her chest: she's going to fast too! Ammi says she's still too young to fast, but Aliya is determined. At school, she refuses her snack, her lunch--even the cupcakes Sanjay's mom drops off for his birthday. But when she gets home, she can't resist Ammi's sweet, syrupy baklava. Before Aliya can stop herself, she reaches out and takes a big bite.
Aliya is disappointed in herself, but Ammi explains that there are many other ways to celebrate Ramadan besides fasting, like performing acts of kindness! Together, Aliya and her parents spend the month preparing and delivering meals to people in need.
This joyful look at Ramadan is based on the author's own childhood experiences and is rich with facts and details about the holiday. Readers familiar and unfamiliar with the holiest month in the Islamic calendar will get swept up in the festivities, and perhaps be inspired to share a meal with their community.
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School Library Journal
Gr 1-2--Aliya, a second grade student, wants to celebrate Ramadan just like her mom and dad. Despite Dad's gentle objection, Aliya secretly plans to fast anyway. "'I can fast, ' she tells herself. 'I know I can!'" But Ramadan also embraces acts of kindness, Aliya's mother explains, as they cut vegetables and prepare food to share with the needy. Aliya begins to practice acts of kindness, too, just like her mother. She joyfully hosts her two best school friends for Iftar, the evening meal during Ramadan. A glossary defines the Islamic words that are sparingly included in the story to provide context. Pencil-lined, warm pastel illustrations of Aliya with her parents and school friends render them with a tender and intimate closeness. This feeling is accentuated by the small print of the text. VERDICT A wonderful selection for Ramadan displays or as part of a story time or presentation on world holidays and religions featuring Nancy Elizabeth Wallace's Can Sophie Change the World? and Thrity Umrigar's Binny's Diwali.--Monica Fleche
Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.Review quotes
JUV017090 - Juvenile Fiction | Holidays & Celebrations | Other, Religious
JUV033270 - Juvenile Fiction | Religious | Muslim
