Recently, I compiled a list of some of my favorite children’s books for Ramadan.
As an educator and a mother, I’m always on the search for excellent children’s books written by Muslim authors. Needless to say, I was pretty excited when I heard that yet another brand-new children’s book about Ramadan was released just in time for Ramadan. Of course, I had to review it!
Owl & Cat: Ramadan is … is perfect for young children because it’s simple, sweet, and informative. I love that I can read this to both my one-year-old and three-year-old, and they both listen attentively, and gaze at the cute owls and cats.
This book is wonderful for both Muslims and people of different faiths because it explains many different things we do in Ramadan, like eating, shopping and giving. It translates any Arabic words that we are so used to seeing but others may not understand (like suhoor, or breakfast).
Owl & Cat: Ramadan Is … is perfect for libraries, mosques and your children’s classrooms.
I asked the author and illustrator, Emma Apple, why she wrote the book, and this is what she said.
“Owl & Cat kind of jumped out at me in my sketchbook one day, and I started drawing them in all sorts of little scenarios. It wasn’t right away that I thought of putting them in Muslim picture books, but once the idea came to me I knew they would be perfect for the role. I’m using Owl & Cat to introduce Muslim life to little Muslims who are learning to be proud of who they are, and what is special about being Muslim, and to their non- Muslim friends, family and neighbors. The books are intentionally light-hearted, humorous and gentle with the topic, which is why I’m calling them Muslim picture books rather than Islamic, I want them to be books that find a happy home on any multi-cultural bookshelf (home, library, classroom) and in any little person’s hands, regardless of culture, religion and background.”
The book is available in both hardcover and paperback on Amazon. Paperback is available here; use the code 8KNQMUMB for 25% off.
