Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartfelt story about Ramadan and learning how to sparkle.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE GIFT OF RAMADAN follows the story of Sophia and her family's Ramadan celebration. After spotting the crescent moon, Sophia knows it's time to begin the monthlong holiday, which includes fasting. Upon learning from her grandmother that fasting helps make a person "sparkly," Sophia decides she wants to fast alongside her family for the first time. When her attempt fails, she searches for another way to support her family and participate in the special holiday.
Is It Any Good?
This beautiful, family-centered picture book brings the holiday to life. The Gift of Ramadan is a wonderful portrayal of a loving, multigenerational family that focuses on their commitment to one another other and their beliefs during an important religious celebration. Author Rabiah York Lumbard's story shows that the holiday is not about food but rather about the care shown for loved ones and the community around you. Laura K. Horton's warm illustrations help tell the story and draw young readers in with lots of details.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about all the information shared about Ramadan in The Gift of Ramadan. What did you know about the holiday before you read the book? What is something new you learned?
Do you and your family celebrate Ramadan? What special traditions do you have?
If you could talk to Sophia, what would you suggest she do during the day while she's fasting, to help keep her heart full?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Laura Horton
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Holidays
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Albert Whitman & Co.
- Publication date : April 1, 2019
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate