Tag Archives: Kindness

Oct20

Sameer and Snazzy: Kindness Counts by Emma L. Halim illustrated by Herry Prihamdni

Posted on October 20, 2025 by islamicschoollibrarian

The 32 page faceless picture book for toddlers and up, is set in Australia and follows Sameer and his cat Snazzy on a bushwalk. At first I felt like it might be a little bit like the classic, “And to Think that I Saw it on Mulberry Street,” but the structured story with a repetitive refrain adds in Islamic phrases, silly encounters, and examples of kindness that make it unique. Add in a fun surprise at the end, and like many other books by the author, be prepared to have it memorized as your little ones ask for it over and over again.

The book starts with Sameer look forward to his grandpa coming to visit, but wishing he had something exciting to share with him. Snazzy suggests he shares that he can talk to animals, but Sameer knows no one would ever believe that, so the two set off on a bushwalk to find something exciting.

When they hear an “A-choooooo!” in the trees, the fun is just getting started with Miss Koala sneezing and making eucalyptus leaves fall. The duo finds a way to help, but the fallen leaves mean ants are stuck in their home and can’t get out. Once again, Sameer and Snazzy, find a way to help. After each episode the refrain of, “‘Imagine if I told Grandpa this!”‘ I say to Snazzy. ‘He’d never believe you! he smiles. ‘NO-ONE WOULD!’ We laugh together and continue along the path, when suddenly…”

The book ends with a surprise, that I won’t spoil. The backmatter has a reference to Surah An-Naml and explains that Prophet Sulayman peace be upon him, really could speak to animals. There is also a glossary of the Islamic phrases and a QR code to continue to the fun after the story ends.

The book is a bit more text heavy than some of her others, but the illustrations are fun, and will keep kid’s attention. It does not rhyme, but has a cadence that makes reading it aloud easy. The small size makes the book better suited to bed time, but could work in a story time, and would be wonderful tuned into a story board/felt board read aloud. The book is a universal story, but at some point in Islamic fiction self published and small published books, I think we will need to have open dialogue and discussions if having characters that are not the same race as the author or illustrator is appropriate and beneficial, or is misleading and better to avoid.

***EDIT: The author reached out to me asking me to remove this generalized opinion of me calling upon the need to have discussion, I opted to amend, as I think we need to have conversation and believe intention and purpose in whatever one decides is a benefit. So, to avoid errors in interpreting her ask, I will simply post the screen shots, and my response. Please note I did not tag the author in my Instagram post, she reached out to me. I purchased the book, it was not gifted.

Oct9

Steet Puppy, Masjid Cat by Moniza Hossain illustrated by Wastana Haikal

Posted on October 9, 2025 by islamicschoollibrarian

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Steet Puppy, Masjid Cat by Moniza Hossain illustrated by Wastana Haikal

I was a little nervous opening the book, I didn’t know if it was going to be a “Lady and the Tramp” type retelling, and I was unsure how dogs would be presented, but I sure was not prepared for the absolute adorableness that unfolded. The simple rhyming lines contrasting the street puppy’s life to that of the pampered cat in the masjid, to their meeting, and the sweet imam leading with kindness warmed my heart. The real chef’s kiss is the backmatter that doesn’t source, but references the sunnah of “acts of charity to every beast alive,” and notes that dogs, unlike cats, are not allowed in the mosque for religious reasons. I love that “masjid” is in the title, that the author’s note and glossary explain adhan, imam, and the Quran, and ultimately that friendship amongst differences is the takeaway for all readers. I don’t love that the adhan in the text is described as ringing and the imam as singing, but I acknowledge my pickiness. And while I love that Prophet Muhammad saw is mentioned in the author’s note, I do wish salutations were given afterward. The illustrations on every one of the 32 pages are delightful, and I love that the image on the jacket is different than the one on the book itself. For ages 3 and up, and even emerging readers, this book has a lot of heart, and my 6 year old has read it aloud so many times, I just might have it memorized.

The book starts with simple rhyming lines showing the contrasting life of the cat and the dog, from their daily activities, to how other’s treat them. When they meet, the cat is not too welcoming, but the imam shows the puppy kindness and the cat follows suit. As simple as sharing and giving each other a chance, creates a friendship between the two animals, and a beautiful conclusion even the littlest children will understand.

The book is not didactic, and the role of the imam and setting of the masjid, for Muslim kids will be such a spark of joy, but in no way will it limit non Muslim children from connecting with the story. The benefit for all is seeing a masjid environment and a Muslim in action, normalizing both, and inshaAllah reminding us all to be a little kinder to our animal friends.

Oct7

Zamzam for Everyone: Sharing Water at Hajj by Razeena Omar Gutta illustrated by Bassent Dawoud

Posted on October 7, 2025 by islamicschoollibrarian

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Zamzam for Everyone: Sharing Water at Hajj by Razeena Omar Gutta illustrated by Bassent Dawoud

This joyful 32 page picture book is both adorable and educational. Layers of Hajj and Zamzam threaded through with the global reach of Islam, generosity, food, language, and a little girl with a big smile brightening every encounter, is heartfelt and tender. Each reading has me smiling and marveling at the illustrations, amount of information simply conveyed, and the way it all comes together to offer both a window and a mirror for readers of all ages, particularly 3 and up. The robust backmatter allows older readers to benefit, and with pronunciation guides, cultural and religious oversight noted, this book will be a favorite at bedtime and story times in Islamic and public schools, libraries, and gatherings. SubhanAllah, the book is really well done and such a gift to us all to see Hajj and Zamzam unapologetically and proudly presented through little Mariam’s eyes. It will leave children feeling like they just had a warm hug, and inshaAllah making dua’a that they too will be invited to Hajj soon.

The book starts with Mariam feeling blessed to be one of the millions of people at Hajj. Her mother encourages her to be good, share, and be grateful all while staying hydrated, as it will be tiring. She tries to come up with what she can do to get blessings, in addition to smiling, when she realizes sharing her Zamzam water will be the most beneficial.

She helps an old lady find a seat and gives her some Zamzam, the Pakistani lady says, “shukria” and gives her dates in return. When she shares with some Indonesian sisters and is told “Terimah Kasih” she is handed some pandan cookies in gratitude. This continues all throughout her Umrah with pilgrims and workers from different countries thanking her in different languages and sharing something back with her.

It carries on through the steps of her Hajj, even when Makkah is far away. And even when she returns to her home, she shares the Zamzam to bring a part of Hajj to those that stayed at home.

The backmatter tells the story of Zamzam, information about the treats mentioned from around the world, information about Hajj with a glossary as well as the steps of Umrah and Hajj, information about the author and illustrator, and who helped insure accuracy of all the cultural and religious content included.

The book comes out in January 2026, and appears to be available in both hardback and paperback, please preorder to show support.

Mar10

My First Book about Charity: teachings for Toddlers and Young Children by Sara Khan illustrated by Ali Lodge

Posted on March 10, 2025 by islamicschoollibrarian

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My First Book about Charity: teachings for Toddlers and Young Children by Sara Khan illustrated by Ali Lodge

The newest board book in the My First Book series is a gentle and wonderful introduction to charity, both sadaqah and zakat. Sourced with ayats from the Quran, there is also backmatter that has Facts about Charity and Questions and Answers. I’m always amazed at how much information the series consistently contains in the 26 pages for our littlest Muslims. With soft illustrations and smiling joyful faces, each page radiates warmth, information and simplicity in a way that grows with toddlers, to preschoolers, to early elementary aged readers, alhumdulillah.

The book starts with affirming that Allah has given us more blessings than we can count, and some of us have more than others. To help those that have less, Allah wants us to give charity. The book briefly explains that Zakat is one of the pillars that is required, and sadaqah is an extra reward that is not just money.

It talks about the sunnah of giving charity, and numerous ways that kindness can be carried out. It shows respect and helping and concludes with Allah’s names of All-Knowing and All-Hearing before the final supplemental spread.

I don’t know how many books are planned for the series, but I love looking at them all lined up. I share them with my own children and now that there are accompanying puzzles and a boxed set, I’m positive I’ll continue gifting them, not just to new parents as I’ve done in the past, but to toddler and preschoolers as well.

Jun10

Xavier’s Voice by Ashley Franklin illustrated by Tatiana Gardel

Posted on June 10, 2024 by islamicschoollibrarian

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Xavier’s Voice by Ashley Franklin illustrated by Tatiana Gardel

At 48 pages this picture book provides a tender window into a little boy with anxiety, a small voice, and a huge imagination. I absolutely love that Xavier is the star, the other kids are not mean or overly nice, they are important, but at the story’s core is him finding his confidence, and accepting himself, through his love of superheroes, sketching, and imagining what-ifs. Xavier is Muslim, there is an “Assalamu Alaika” on one of the pages from another character to him, a superhero by the name of Super Saleem, and Islamic decor in the illustrations in his home. Religion is not centered or explored in this Muslim authored book, but Muslim readers will see the subtle hints and feel seen immediately. I love that Xavier discusses coping techniques his therapist has taught him to help with his anxiety and that the tone is empowering and positive. A good story for kindergarten through second grade, and a great way for kids with anxiety to see themselves represented, and a window for others to grow their empathy and compassion.

The book starts with Xavier at school, which is loud, and wishing that he could make his small voice big. He notices the big voice kids, have lots of friends, and he can’t seem to find the words when people talk to him. He gets nervous, and as a result, he is lonely. One day he discovers Super Saleem and that inspires him to create his own superheroes that are unstoppable. When raindrops start to fall, a new kid, comes to help, and BJ likes Xavier’s drawings. Xavier wonders if he has finally made a friend. The book shows that even when things are going well, there can be a lot of worries, stresses, over thinking, and missteps. But being brave to keep trying, can have super results.

Apr5

Sister Friend by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow illustrated by Shahrzad Maydani

Posted on April 5, 2024 by islamicschoollibrarian

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Sister Friend by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow illustrated by Shahrzad Maydani

After years of teaching, librarian-ing, and mothering, my reviewers are for adults, but with kids in mind. I read in different environments and try and balance what children will think with my more critical literary impressions. But honestly, my first reaction when I see Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow has a new book out, is not about the children, or their parents, it is incredibly selfish, and I want to read the picture book for me. It has been about a year since I first read my all time favorite, Salat in Secret, and I still feel all the feels, every time I read the book. I even enjoy handing the book to people and watching them read it for the first time. So, I was both excited, and nervous to read this new book, not knowing if it would measure up to my expectations or rather hopes, so to speak. I needn’t have worried, subhanAllah, this book in it’s own right is moving, heartfelt, layered, powerful, hopeful, relatable, tender, and while staying on a kindergarten to second grade level is also unapologetic with its centering of Islam, race, and feeling invisible, being new, and making a friend. The illustrations and words blend beautifully, and by the second page of the 40 page book, I was already emotionally attached to the little protagonist Ameena. Good writing is good writing, and as a result this beautiful book works for all ages and will be appreciated on multiple layers even after dozens of readings, alhumdulillah.

The book begins with Ameena playing a game by herself. She always plays by herself at school, where she tends to be invisible. Maybe it is her hair in twists or her brownness, she doesn’t know. One day a new girl comes, her name is Sundus, she wears hijab like Ameena wears to the masjid.

All day Ameena tries to talk to Sundus, but something always seems to keep them apart. When they finally meet, Ameena’s excited words get all tangled, and a misunderstanding occurs. Ameena decides the next day to transform into a rockstar: red-orange hijab and matching boots. The other kids say she is copying the new girl. Sundus doesn’t say anything.

Ameena disappears again at school, but family night at the masjid is her happy place. Where she doesn’t play alone, and there are lots of browns, and she is seen. When Mama meets a new sister, and greets her with Assalamu Alaikum, Ameena sees how a greeting and a hug can be the start of sisterhood and friendship. And the next time Sundus and Ameena meet, they know just what to say.

The joy at the end forces you to smile, just as Ameena playing alone at the beginning tugs at your heart. It is a great book to see yourself and see others in a beautiful, authentic way. The universal themes of not being seen, making a friend, and being the new kid, are woven in just as hijab, masjid and Assalamu Alaikum are, making the book powerful for Muslim and non Muslims alike.

I particularly love that their is no glossary, and that the text uses the word masjid not mosque, hijab not scarf and Assalamu Alaikum not salam. That the masjid is her safe place to laugh and play, and that this book is mainstream published and will find its way to public spaces and be widely accessible.

You can preorder your copy here on Amazon.

Oct9

The Little War Cat by Hiba Noor Khan illustrated by Laura Chamberlain

Posted on October 9, 2023 by islamicschoollibrarian

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The Little War Cat by Hiba Noor Khan illustrated by Laura Chamberlain

Even though the book is told from the cat’s perspective, the book never overshadows the human cost of the Syrian war. The beautiful illustrations and clear text do not shy away from the pain and destruction, but allows for young preschool children and up to see the affects of war through the cat’s eyes, as well as the kindness and hope that prevails. Over 32 pages readers are taken to the streets of Aleppo to see the marble mosques give way to boots and destruction. The little cat observes the changes, notes the differences and when kindness is shown to her, she finds a way to pay it forward. I had not intended to post another book by Hiba Noor Khan so close to another book of hers, but as atrocities in Idlib increase I felt it a good time to remind us all, that the war is not “over” in Syria and the destruction and loss of life still requires our awareness, help, prayers, and attention.

The book begins with a warm scene of a little grey cat playing and lounging under the sun in a masjid courtyard. When the boots come, though, it all disappears. The cat begins to notice the changes and the fear becomes real.

But then one day the cat sees humans that are different than the ones with boots, and she follows one. He cares for her, and she starts to feel like herself again, when she sees someone that also is afraid, the cat is determined to help.

The book concludes with a note from the author telling about the inspiration for the story, “The Cat Man of Aleppo,” and challenging readers to find ways to share kindness.

Aug11

Zain’s Super Friday by Hena Khan illustrated by Nez Riaz

Posted on August 11, 2023 by islamicschoollibrarian

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Zain’s Super Friday by Hena Khan illustrated by Nez Riaz

I love the joy and normalizing of mainstream titles celebrating salat, Jummah, and the masjid becoming increasingly available for us to read and share. This particular book is great for preschool to early elementary aged children that enjoy going to the masjid, but sometimes want to put on a cape and be the hero battling aliens, that know how to behave during salat, but sometimes have a hard time sitting still, and parents that want to play with their kids, but sometimes have to get some work done first. With threads of patience, kindness, and determination woven in to masjid activities, the book is both a mirror for Muslim kids and a window for those that wonder what a Friday prayer service looks like. The 32 page book is unapologetic, joyful, and a great addition to book shelves.

Zain wakes up early Friday morning and is ready to save the world. Dad greets Zain with a “Jum’uah Mubarak,” but has to pass on battling the aliens taking over the kitchen. At lunchtime, when dad takes a break from work, Zain tries again to engage him in heroic play, but it is time for Jum’uah. Zain slips on his cape and vows to protect everyone.

When they get to the mosque, aka command central, Zain tries again, but dad redirects him to make wudu before salat. Heat action dries his feet, but the adhan starts and giant shoes and aliens will have to wait, yet again. During the khutbah, wiggly Zain sits by his dad, but when the Imam encourages them to stand for salat and fill any gaps, Zain takes it as a call to duty and races to the front announcing, “Here I come, Commander Imam, reporting for duty.”

The kind Imam knows just what to do, and as Zain controls his focus, even dad finds time to be a hero and battle the aliens on this super Friday at the mosque.

I love that wudu, athan, khutbah, Imam, are all used without a glossary and that the Author’s Note is informative and unapologetic in tying it all together and making the terms clear. I wish masjid was used instead of mosque, but I know that is just my personal preference. I love that the Imam is kind and the dad is gentle and playful. Even when Zain is not getting to do what he wants, he is not unhappy with being at Jumuah, or making salat, or being redirected, he just wants to indulge his imagination. The warmth and joy of the illustrations reinforces the tone of the book, and with the inclusion of charity, and the happy ending, I can’t wait to have a physical copy of this book in my hands.

The book releases on October 10, 2023 and can be preordered/ordered here on Amazon and I’m sure will be available once released at Crescent Moon Store, where my initials ISL at checkout will always save you 10%.

May1

The Together Tree by Aisha Saeed illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Posted on May 1, 2023 by islamicschoollibrarian

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The Together Tree by Aisha Saeed illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Being the new kid, not having friends, and being teased are not new themes in literature (or life), so if you are going to write a book about them, take a lesson from Muslim author Aisha Saeed and make sure the story is heartfelt, emotional, and well-told. There is no Islam in the book, no foreign culture, or teasing because of skin color, it is a boy named Rumi who has moved from San Francisco to the other side of America and his shoes, with their drawings and colorings, that cause the kids to stare and start bullying. Rumi seeks solace under a willow tree and fellow classmate Han has to be brave to put a stop to the mistreatment by finding his voice and not simply staying silent. The text and illustrations provide a lot of opportunities for children to see themselves in the story, in the various characters, and ruminate over the actions and feelings from different points of view. The book is lyrical, it is not heavy handed or preachy, and the Author’s Note at the end is equally touching and hopeful.

Rumi is quiet, and on his first day in Ms. Garza’s class the kids stare at him as he stares out the window. At recess he wanders off to sit beneath the willow tree when Asher, Ella and Han leave the swings to see what he is up to. Asher and Ella start to make fun of Rumi, Han is uncomfortable, but stays quiet.

Rumi recalls coloring his shoes with his friends, and how different it was to where he is now, he picks up a twig to twirl as the hurt grows. In music class when the giggling starts, he tries not to cry. At recess he retreats to his refuge under the tree.

When the bullying escalates, and tears fall, Han speaks up and breaks the cycle. Others follow and see the world Rumi has created with his twig and are drawn to it and to Rumi. Forgiveness is asked for, and granted and the tree becomes a place of friendship and togetherness.

The Author’s Note shares the real life observations of the author about her son in kindergarten and how while heartbreaking, there was also hope in the concern shown by other kids that simply weren’t sure what to do. I love that even though Rumi is being teased for his shoes and being different, he doesn’t stop wearing his shoes or try and clean the drawings off.

I think this book is a must read in classrooms and homes were kids can slowly peel back the pieces and see where they can relate, how they can plan to act, and what parts they identify with. The book is deliberate and slow, and while a child could read it on their own and enjoy the story and illustrations at hand, the real power it has, is being a catalyst for discussion and empathy and speaking up.

Pre order/order here on Amazon

Mar5

The Adventures of Adam and Anisah: The Golden Trail by Zahra Patel illustrated by Reyhana Ismail

Posted on March 5, 2023 by islamicschoollibrarian

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The Adventures of Adam and Anisah: The Golden Trail by Zahra Patel illustrated by Reyhana Ismail

This third book in the Adam and Zahra series, also available with a workbook, focuses on zakat and can be read alone. Aimed at toddlers to early preschoolers, this rhyming story can also work at story time with slightly older kids as a reminder of zakat and giving to those in needs. The book has very minimal text and as a result if you overthink it, it could be slightly problematic: there is magic, they are taking and giving something that doesn’t belong to them, Zakat is a portion of your wealth not sharing something you found-even if a note says otherwise. I think the book is sweet though, and the discussions to have with little ones outweigh the adult concerns I’ve mentioned. It touches on giving to others, on people in need, of people in need living very close to you, that everything being a gift from Allah (swt), it shows siblings working together, sharing, generosity, a lemonade stand for Yemen, giving of food and money, and befriending others. I think if you liked the other books in the series regarding a “magic” pray rug and a fasting shield, both mentioned in this, you will like the presentation of sharing and the term zakat presented in a similar fantasy laced manner; if those books felt uncomfortable for you and your family, this one probably will as well.

Adam and Anisa start the story in Ramadan, a week before Eid, digging in the sand at the beach. Adam finds a treasure box and a message in a bottle. The treasure box is locked and the message says that “My name is Zakat and I’m for someone in need…” Once the kids get the box home and the lock off, a beam of light shines a path for them to follow.

They follow the light out the door and through the field, and past the mosque and their friends, along the way they purchase a pie from the bakery for when they break their fast and keep following the light to the field as the sun starts to set. They find a house in the forest with a mom, a baby, and a little boy, to whom they give the money and the pie. They learn that they had moved to this country and were all alone, but Allah swt provided for them, and He is never far. They all break their fast together and learn that “Whenever you give, Allah will give you more.”

The backmatter of the book contains Context to the Story, Developing Character Strengths, Learning through Practice and a map of their adventure. I purchased my copy from Crescent Moon Store here and if you use my initials (Islamic School Librarian) ISL at checkout you will save 10%.