Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices

Parents need to know that Once Upon an Eid: Stories of Hope and Joy by 15 Muslim Voices is an inspiring and enormously engaging anthology edited by S.K. Ali (Saints and Misfits) and Aisha Saeed (Amal Unbound) The collection includes short fiction, poetry, and artwork are all inspired by the Muslim holiday of Eid, which marks the end of fasting for Ramadan, with gifts and parties with lots and lots of wonderful food. Each story begins with an illustration by by Sara Alfageeh, who also contributes a story in the style of a graphic novel. There's an enormous diversity in the boys, girls, and families in the anthology. Families come from Africa, the West Indies, Syria, Malaysia, Australia, and the United States, and they celebrate Eid in many different ways. The young Muslim characters confront challenges familiar to many young readers: feeling as if they don't fit in, the desire to look more grown up, dealing with extended and blended families, the death or illness of someone they love, a parent's divorce. A young Syrian boy remembers (briefly and never in any graphic detail) the terrifying journey that took him to a refugee camp in Greece and the rockets, bombs, and soldiers that destroyed his hometown. Lessons for readers about sharing, acceptance, and kindness are present throughout the book.