A heartwarming celebration of Ramadan, food, and community

Ramadan is coming, and as Abba and Ammi prepare for their month-long fast, Aliya hugs a secret to her chest: she’s going to fast too! Ammi says she’s still too young to fast, but Aliya is determined. At school, she refuses her snack, her lunch—even the cupcakes Sanjay’s mom drops off for his birthday. But when she gets home, she can’t resist Ammi’s sweet, syrupy baklava. Before Aliya can stop herself, she reaches out and takes a big bite.

Aliya is disappointed in herself, but Ammi explains that there are many other ways to celebrate Ramadan besides fasting, like performing acts of kindness! Together, Aliya and her parents spend the month preparing and delivering meals to people in need.

This joyful look at Ramadan is based on the author’s own childhood experiences and is rich with facts and details about the holiday. Readers familiar and unfamiliar with the holiest month in the Islamic calendar will get swept up in the festivities, and perhaps be inspired to share a meal with their community.

Farida Zaman is a Toronto-based multidisciplinary artist and writer who is well-known for her whimsical, uplifting designs. She has illustrated fourteen picture books, including When Mom's Away, Ta-Da! and The Yoga Game, and is the author/illustrator of I Want To Be… A Gutsy Girls’ ABC. Born in Bangladesh, and having called many different countries home, Farida describes herself as a global citizen with a flair for illustrating stories related to different cultures, travel, history, and diverse lived experiences. She trained in fine art and illustration at the Chelsea School of Art and the Wimbledon School of Art in London, England, where she graduated top of her class with honors. Her work has been exhibited at shows and galleries and has received recognition and awards in Europe and North America.

Farida Zaman's profile page

• Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens

"A wonderful book for young children to understand this beautiful holiday ... Great for any young children’s library!"

Children’s Literature Comprehensive Database

"A wonderful selection for Ramadan displays or as part of a story time or presentation on world holidays and religions."

School Library Journal

"Drawing from her own experiences, Zaman provides a helpful look into the basic practices of Ramadan ... A cheerful and relatable tale of a young girl finding the perfect way to celebrate Ramadan."

Kirkus Reviews

"Telling, colorful artwork, an author's note and a glossary help young readers with learning about this yearly Muslim celebration."

Sal's Fiction Addiction

"Colorful illustrations fold in details, both charming and cultural, that bring Aliya's point of view and activities to life ... A wonderful story to celebrate or learn about Ramadan."

Booklist – STARRED REVIEW