| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that there are few books for children about Islam. This simple, straightforward story of a young Muslim boy and his introduction to fasting and Ramadan is one of them.
Magid, an 8-year-old boy from Cairo, is dedicated to being a good Muslim. He feels he should be able to fast during Ramadan, along with the rest of the family, but his parents don't think he's old enough. His struggle to do what's right teaches him an important lesson about his religion and what being good really means.
MAGID FASTS FOR RAMADAN presents a gentle story and simple introduction to this Muslim holy time for young readers. More than just an explanation of Muslim religious practice, this is a story about an 8-year-old boy trying to figure out how to be a good Muslim and a good person. How can Magid balance obedience to his parents and honesty with their refusal to let him fast as he wishes? Because he is part of a loving, supportive family, he learns an important lesson that helps him understand the spiritual implications of his choices.
With clear text told from the boy's point of view and expressive watercolor illustrations, this book presents a very age-appropriate introduction to the Muslim religion, especially Ramadan. But even more, it presents a meaningful, loving message about doing what is right. Readers will appreciate the Notes on Islam, as well as the glossary and pronunciation guide, that follow the story.
Families can talk about Islam, Ramadan, and fasting in general. Why do people fast? They might discuss Magid's struggle to become a good Muslim and the problem he faced. Why did Magid want to fast? Why did his parents think it was a bad idea? Do you think he was right to try to fool his family? Why did his sister tell his secret? What would you have done? For families with other religious backgrounds, is this how you pictured a Muslim family? How is your family the same? What do the media we see, hear, and read tell us about Muslim families and religious practices?
| Author: | Mary Matthews |
| Illustrator: | E. B. Lewis |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Family Life |
| Publisher: | Clarion Books |
| Publication date: | March 28, 2000 |
| Number of pages: | 48 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 9 - 12 |
| Read aloud: | 8 |
| Read alone: | 8 |
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