Hannah and the Ramadan Gift
Sweet, inspiring story about girl's Ramadan celebration.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
父母需要知道Hannah and the Ramadan Giftwritten by author and human rights lawyerQasim Rashidand illustrated byAaliya Jaleel, tells how an 8-year-old girl, guided by her loving and reassuring grandfather, finds meaning in and celebrates Ramadan.The book features Hannah and her family as well as a diverse cast of neighbors and friends from various ethnic, racial, and religious backgrounds.Rashid'stext is straightforward and gentle, although a bit long on some pages. Both text and illustrations detail aspects of Ramadan, of Islam, and of Hannah's family's culture (presumably Pakistani, like the Pakistani American author's). Jaleel's animation style illustrations are cheery and eye-catching. The story is gentle and affirming. There's an instance of a teacher scolding Hannah for coming in late after recess and a visit to the cemetery to visit her grandmother's grave.
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What's the Story?
In HANNAH AND THE RAMADAN GIFT, 8-year-old Hannah wakes up excited on the first day of Ramadan and asks her grandfather, Dada Jaan, if she can fast this year. He says she's still too young, but she can celebrate Ramadan "by saving the world." Dada Jaan encourages Hannah, during the month of Ramadan, to help others, whether by donating to a soup kitchen or shelter or by helping out classmates and new neighbors. Throughout the story, different aspects of Ramadan, of Islam, and of Hannah's family culture -- such as prayers, rituals, food, and clothing -- are detailed in the text and illustrations. Although Hannah sometimes doubts that she's done enough to help others and to observe Ramadan, Dada Jaan is always there to guide and reassure her. She's also surrounded by a diverse and supportive community who join her for a joyous Eid celebration at the end.
Is It Any Good?
Hannah and the Ramadan Giftis a sweet, uplifting picture book about Ramadan for younger readers. At the center of the story is the heartwarming and assuring relationship between Hannah and her grandfather. The message of "saving the world" by helping those in your own community is a universal message that can inspire children and families of all backgrounds. The book tells of specific, simple ways children can help others, by assisting a classmate or neighbor in need or by donating to a local organization. The diverse, supportive cast of neighbors and friends is another inspiring aspect of the story. Children will enjoy the vibrant, colorful, and detailed animation-style illustrations. Both Muslim readers and those unfamiliar with Islam will enjoy this simple yet meaningful and joyful celebration of Ramadan.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
InHannah and the Ramadan Gift,Hannah's grandfather tells her that she can celebrate Ramadan by "saving the world." Throughout the story, Hannah helps people in different ways, such as donating food to a soup kitchen and assisting a friend in finding a lost necklace. When have you helped someone? How did it feel?
Hannah and her family are Muslim and celebrate Ramadan. What holidays do your family celebrate? Which is your favorite and why?
The illustrations inHannah and the Ramadan Giftwere drawn digitally. How do you think the illustrations are different from those created with pencils or paint? Which illustration is your favorite in the book? Why do you like it?
Book Details
- Author:Qasim Rashid
- Illustrator:Aaliya Jaleel
- Genre:Picture Book
- Topics:Friendship,Great Boy Role Models,Great Girl Role Models,Holidays
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher:Viking Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: April 20, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 3 - 7
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: March 30, 2022
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