| Living
Islam Today A Magazine for Muslim Americans Vol. 1 Issue 2 Winter 1421/ 2000 |
Books |
|
| IFNA | ||
|
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate Source of All Mercy |
||
| Islam is a way of life, yet it's rare that our children's literature addresses it. Little by little there are a few titles that are becoming more in tuned as to what our young children need today. What follows are some reviews that focus on books for children which deal with simple aspects of living a life as a Muslim. | ||
| Surprise in
Mommy's Tummy by Ediba Kezzeiz |
|
|
| Surprise In Mommy's Stomach addresses a tough topic that will eventually come up for any parent: "Where do babies come from?" The story uses the pregnancy of a mother to discuss the various stages of a child's birth. Through the questions of Hany and Hend (her young children) we are presented with commonly asked questions about child birth. Yes, every question is asked from "How did the baby get in there?" to "Where does it come out?" Each answer is given in an understandable manner with the Islamic perspective through out. A book, such as this, is much welcomed; however, remember that as the parents you must supplement any information that is given. In other words, answer questions that children ask. If they don't ask you about certain things (especially when they're young) don't "bring it up." Sometimes they may not be ready for certain topics. | ||
|
|
What Do We Say...
(A
guide to Islamic Manners) by Noorah Kathryn Abdullah |
|
| This handy book is recommended to children 3 - 5 years old. The text is very easy to read, and the Du'a's are set to colorful examples that illustrate the times when such supplications should be said. A handy glossary is provided at the back of the book which more clearly defines each du'a. The only thing that is missing is the Arabic text for each du'a. While some may feel it may be confusing for a child of three years old to comprehend, the accompanying Arabic text may have been a nice introduction to familiarize the children with the language. All in all, it's a nice book that matches the phrase with its purpose. | ||
| The Food We Eat
by Farah Saedar |
|
|
| The premise of this book is simple yet needed. The Food We Eat lists different types of food which we all enjoy and attributes its creation to Allah (swt). By doing so, children know that the things they love to eat and keep them healthy (like bananas and honey) come from our Creator. The message is illustrated by wonderfully rendered water color images. We see a young boy taking a trip with his mother and little sister as they collect small edible treasures. How does it end? With the child uttering the best thanks one can give: "Bismillah." | ||
|
Each book shows a certain aspect of our life as Muslims. What's wonderful is that each book is geared towards the younger members of our Ummah. They need to learn that Allah (swt) is at the center of the food we eat, the friendships we make, and the life that we are blessed with. |
||
