What is the most important gift for a child? Is it toys or new clothes? Today we are sharing a new picture book about Ramadan and what a young girl prays for and really wants for EID. The book is Ramadan Rain by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and illustrated by Aliaa Betawi. It is recommended for ages 4 to 8.
About the Book:
Haneen's Momma says that during Ramadan raindrops bring blessings and answer prayers. As they travel through the streets on a slow bus ride, rain drips down the window, and Haneen prays for new shoes and bright dresses--gifts she really, really wants to receive for Eid.
When they arrive at the masjid, Haneen makes Eid cards with the twins, Safa and Marwa, helps give out dates and water and spread tarps for dinner, and whispers duas--and, as she does, she begins to wish for something different. Something she wants more than anything. After all, the most precious gifts are not shoes and dresses, but the kindness of friends and the magic of faith. And, of course, the love of your Momma.
From Me:
In this story Haneen and her mother ride the bus to the masjid. It is raining and Haneen's mother tells her that Ramadan duas (prayers) are answered more often in the rain. At the masjid, Haneen goes with friends to make EID cards. She draws her mother and herself on the card. She thinks about what she would like for EID. She wonders if she can get new shoes, clothes, and toys but remember her mother said they don't have money for new things. She thinks about what she wants to pray for and decides what really matters is her mother's love and time with her mother. Her friends give her mother her card before Haneen can change it. Her mother sees the new things that Haneen wants and worries about getting them for her. However, the masjid has a space for people in need to get gifts and she manages to find much of what Haneen wants. Haneen however gives her mother a new card which is all about spending time with her.
This is a beautiful book sharing the view of a young girl and her mother who do not have much money. The young girl sees other kids with new toys and clothes and at first gets envious. She wishes for them. However, she realizes that the most important thing is the love of her mother. It is a wonderful story to share about family time as well as what one truly desires. It also is a bit of an introduction to the Islamic holidays of Ramadan and EID. For even more resources about Ramadan be sure to check out these posts.
