White Nights of Ramadan, TheILLUSTRATED BY Ages: 7–9 Grades: 2–4 Pages: 32 List Price: 16.95 Cover: Hardcover Published: 8/1/2008 ISBN: 1-59078-523-1 ISBN-13: 978-1-59078-523-2 |
Noor lives in a country near the Arabian (Persian) Gulf. She’s looking forward to the festival known as Girgian that comes in the middle of the holy month of Ramadan. These middle days are known as “the three whites," because they include the day of the full moon and day before and after. It’s when children, dressed in traditional clothes, go from house to house collecting treats from their neighbors. From the moment that Noor sees the full moon rising, signaling the coming of Girgian, she and her brothers, Dan and Sam, prepare for the fun. Dan swings his special Ramadan lantern, singing, “Girgian! O Girgian! Candy! O Candy!" Sam bangs on his drum. Noor tries on her fancy dress. Together, Noor and her brothers decorate the bags they will carry to collect the candies. But along with the fun, Noor remembers the true meaning of Ramadan: spending time with family and sharing with those less fortunate. Maha Addasi’s bright and happy story, richly illustrated by Ned Gannon, captures the merriment of a festive holiday and the greatest joy of all—the joy of giving. Awards
Reviews"This picture book makes an excellent introduction to this Muslim celebration and a good companion to Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith's Celebrating Ramadan (2001)." "The story underlines the gift of sharing during a month dedicated to self-improvement and community welfare. Shimmering with moonlit hues, the attractive illustrations are done in a style that reflects one of many Muslim cultures. A helpful author's note and glossary are appended. An excellent choice for units on diversity and multiculturalism." |
