Learning about other cultures and religions is an important part of our family. After moving to Collin County a few years ago, we met several families that celebrated holidays different from ours, such as the Islamic holiday of Ramadan. As we got to know each other, we had great talks about religion and the values we shared, which brought a feeling of connection that strengthened our friendship.
With the celebration of Ramadan happening soon, I thought it would be a great opportunity to learn more about why this holiday is so special to so many people around the world.
Our friends lent us five books to learn more about Ramadan, and we have enjoyed reading them together as a family. They help children understand and celebrate Ramadan, plus they are fun, too!
>> SIGN UP :: Get Collin County Moms News and Events in Your Inbox <<
1. It’s Ramadan, Curious George
It’s Ramadan, Curious George is a board book for younger readers. George learns about fasting from his friend Kareem, and they make gift baskets for the needy together. George participates in Eid festivities, too.
Like many religious holidays, Ramadan centers around family, food, and worship. Ramadan is a month of fasting where Muslims focus on self reflection, growing closer to God, having compassion and empathy for the poor, and giving charity to those in need.
2. Ramadan Around the World
Visit families all around the world and see the various ways they celebrate Ramadan. Many nationalities and demographics are illustrated throughout Ramadan Around the World. This was my son’s favorite because he loves learning about the countries of the world!
>> RELATED READ :: How This Mom Celebrates Ramadan with Her Fort Worth Family <<
Families and communities usually break the fast together, potluck-style. Local mosques pack food boxes to donate to families, as well as wrap and donate gifts for children. Even if you aren’t Muslim, you can participate in fast-a-thons and donate iftar boxes to families around the world.
3. Night of the Moon
The illustrations in Night of the Moon are breathtaking! They show the beauty of the holiday and explain the symbolism of the moon. The story follows a young girl as she celebrates Ramadan and highlights both ancient and modern traditions.
>> RELATED READ :: 5 Things Moms Will Love About Ramadan <<
Families decorate their homes with lanterns, countdown calendars, and activities to make Ramadan fun for the kids. For Ramadan- and Eid-themed decor, check out Days of Eid.
4. Ilyas & Duck: Ramadan Joy!
This series features Muslim characters and stories. Learn about empathy and good deeds along with Ilyas and Duck in Ilyas & Duck: Ramadan Joy! We love this one because it teaches our children the meaning of Ramadan — refraining from negative thoughts and actions such as gossiping, swearing, and lying, along with the fast from eating and drinking.
5. Ilyas & Duck and the Fantastic Festival of Eid-al-Fitr
Another Ilyas & Duck book rounds out this collection of Ramadan books. You learn all about different Eid-al-Fitr celebrations in Ilyas & Duck and the Fantastic Festival of Eid-al-Fitr!
>> RELATED READ :: How Our Family Spends Ramadan <<
Ramadan is the most important holiday in the religion of Islam. The month of Ramadan begins and ends with the sighting of the crescent moon, a symbolic and important part of Islam, and heralds in evening prayers and Eid-al-Fitr — the final celebration with feast and gifts.
Learning more about what’s important to our friends and neighbors shows that we care. When we really take the time to do this, we can create a community of love and respect that helps all our children thrive.
Ramadan Mubarak!
