Aliya's Secret

November 15, 2023
Wanting to emulate her parents, Aliya eventually realizes that fasting is just one way to observe Ramadan. Aliya is excited because the new moon signals the start of Ramadan. As Ammi and Abba hang decorations, Aliya enthusiastically exclaims that she wants to fast with them, but Ammi thinks she's still too young. But a determined Aliya drifts off to sleep with a secret in her heart: She will fast, too! Not eating or drinking at school the next day is harder than Aliya imagined. Her tummy rumbles when she turns down her snack, her lunch, and even the delicious-looking sprinkle-laden cupcakes that the class eats to celebrate a student's birthday. Later, when Aliya helps Ammi bake dessert at home, she accidentally indulges in a bite of sugary, sticky baklava. Aliya cries out in guilt, and Ammi soothes her and explains that there are other ways to celebrate Ramadan, such as helping those in need and sharing meals with the community. Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr and Aliya looking forward to the next year's festivities. Illustrations filled with rich colors and strings of stars and crescents capture the spirit of joyous celebration. Drawing from her own experiences, Zaman provides a helpful look into the basic practices of Ramadan. Cues in the text suggest that Aliya and her family are South Asian; her community is a diverse one. A cheerful and relatable tale of a young girl finding the perfect way to celebrate Ramadan. (author's note, glossary) (Picture book. 4-8)

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July 21, 2023

Gr 1-2-Aliya, a second grade student, wants to celebrate Ramadan just like her mom and dad. Despite Dad's gentle objection, Aliya secretly plans to fast anyway. "'I can fast, ' she tells herself. 'I know I can!'" But Ramadan also embraces acts of kindness, Aliya's mother explains, as they cut vegetables and prepare food to share with the needy. Aliya begins to practice acts of kindness, too, just like her mother. She joyfully hosts her two best school friends for Iftar, the evening meal during Ramadan. A glossary defines the Islamic words that are sparingly included in the story to provide context. Pencil-lined, warm pastel illustrations of Aliya with her parents and school friends render them with a tender and intimate closeness. This feeling is accentuated by the small print of the text. VERDICT A wonderful selection for Ramadan displays or as part of a story time or presentation on world holidays and religions featuring Nancy Elizabeth Wallace's Can Sophie Change the World? and Thrity Umrigar's Binny's Diwali.-Monica Fleche

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from December 1, 2023
Grades K-3 *Starred Review* Author-illustrator Zaman has created a sweet celebration of one Southeast Asian Muslim family's observance of Ramadan, based partly on her own experiences. It begins as Aliya secretly tries to fast all day, like her parents, even though they have assured her that fasting is not for young children, only to have her efforts scuttled by an irresistible plate of homemade baklava. In the end, she realizes that there are many other ways to make the holy month special. Aliya helps her parents make food packages for the needy, invites school friends to share the iftar meal at sundown, and tracks the progress of the moon throughout the lunar month. Colorful illustrations fold in details, both charming and cultural, that bring Aliya's point of view and activities to life, whether at school, home, or the mosque. A brief glossary defines words related to Ramadan. Many Muslim children are likely to see themselves in Aliya's experience, as will those whose religious traditions include fasting. The simple explanations and relatable characters also make the book a beautiful introduction to Ramadan for non-Muslim children and families. Although faith is clearly an important part of the family's life, the story focuses on traditions and kindness and is suitable for all public and school libraries. A wonderful story to celebrate or learn about Ramadan.

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