Ramadan for Everyone

In Khalil and Kheiriyeh’s encouraging tale, young Habeeba is determined to fast all day and stay up to pray Taraweeh at night, just like her older sister, Sumaya, both portrayed with brown skin. But throughout the month, the same thing happens: Habeeba fasts for many hours until a delicious treat, such as her chef Baba’s gooey, cheese-filled kunafa, thwarts her before sundown, and the masjid at nighttime (“soothing whispers of praises and soft, velvety carpets”) lulls her to sleep. When Habeeba grows discouraged, Sumaya explains that “remembering Allah during Ramadan also means being mindful of their community”—and suggests that the younger child find alternate acts of service. And it’s in this deed that Habeeba makes it though a day of fasting. Mixed-media illustrations incorporate images of comets, strawberries, and watermelons; repeating patterns; and sturdy primary and secondary colors. Background characters are depicted with various skin tones. Extensive back matter includes more about Ramadan and an Arabic glossary. Ages 6–8. (Jan.)