Common Sense Media Review
By Patricia Tauzer
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gentle story of Ramadan and doing what's right.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In MAGID FASTS FOR RAMADAN, Magid, an 8-year-old boy from Cairo, is dedicated to being a good Muslim. He feels he should be able to fast during Ramadan, along with the rest of the family, but his parents don't think he's old enough. His struggle to do what's right teaches him an important lesson about his religion and what being good really means.
Is It Any Good?
This gentle story is a simple introduction to the Muslim holy time of Ramadan for young readers. More than just an explanation of Muslim religious practice, Magid Fasts for Ramadan is a story about an 8-year-old boy trying to figure out how to be a good Muslim and a good person. How can Magid balance obedience to his parents and honesty with their refusal to let him fast as he wishes? Because he is part of a loving, supportive family, he learns an important lesson that helps him understand the spiritual implications of his choices.
With clear text told from the boy's point of view and expressive watercolor illustrations, this book presents a very age-appropriate introduction to the Muslim religion, especially Ramadan. But even more, it presents a meaningful, loving message about doing what's right. Readers will appreciate the Notes on Islam, as well as the glossary and pronunciation guide, that follow the story.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Islam, Ramadan, and fasting as shown in Magid Fasts for Ramadan. Why do people fast? Why does Magid want to fast? Why do his parents think it's a bad idea?
Do you think Magid was right to try to fool his family? Why did his sister tell his secret? What would you have done?
How does the media we see, hear, and read portray Muslim families and religious practices? How is your family similar to Magid's?
Book Details
- Author: Mary Matthews
- Illustrator: E. B. Lewis
- Genre: Family Life
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Clarion Books
- Publication date: March 28, 2000
- Number of pages: 48
- Last updated: September 29, 2015
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