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Magid Fasts for Ramadan (by Mary Matthews)

common sense media says

Gentle story of Ramadan and doing what's right.

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What parents need to know

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.

Positive messages: A young boy tries hard to be a good Muslim, like his grandfather.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Magid Fasts for Ramadan

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
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?

What's the story?

What's the story?
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.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

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.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Mary Matthews
Illustrator: E. B. Lewis
Publisher: Clarion Books
Publication date: March 28, 2000
Number of pages: 48
Read Aloud: 8
Read Alone: 8
This review was written by Patricia Tauzer
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

bliver 123
teen, 14 years old
17
 
magid fasts for RAMADAN
i love this book becous i get to learn more abot musilm even know i am one i will recomend it to most of peopel i will give is 5 from 5
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