Ramadan: A Muslim Holy Day, 2006
The following reviews were presented in our 2006 feature on this topic.
Reviews
Bangladesh
Mariam Whyte
Part of the publisher's "Cultures of the World" series (with a range of titles from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe), this volume is rich in photographs, and comprehensive in scope. The diversity of traditions and cultures in Bangladesh, and the influence of history and politics upon the people, is explored in chapters dealing with, for example, History, Economy, Lifestyle, and Food. A glossary, index, map, and quick reference notes are included. Sidebars provide information on tidbits of interest, such as the rules of Ramadan, Bengali poetry, and the Grameen Bank's innovative loan program collaborating with women to bring families out of poverty. 1999, Marshall Cavendish, $23.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 076140869X
Best Books:
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
Celebrate! In South Asia
Joseph F. Viesti and Diane Hall
Photographed by Joe Viesti
Joe Viesti's striking photographs capture the heightened atmosphere and emotional fervor of people who Celebrate! in South Asia, Southeast Asia and Central America. Mr. Viesti and coauthor Diane Hall annotate the mostly full-page pictures with brief introductions to the special occasions, which include a Thai elephant roundup, Indian camel fair, and many new-year celebrations. 1996, Lothrop, $16.00 and $15.93. Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0688137741
ISBN: 068813775X
Celebrating Ramadan = Ramadan Al-Mu'azzam
Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith
Photographs by Lawrence Migdale
The month of Ramadan is one of the most important Islamic celebrations. During Ramadan, devout Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Children are not required to fast but parents are encouraged to have them try. Through text and photographs, Hoyt-Goldsmith and Migdale introduce the reader to Ibraheem, a fourth grade student and his New Jersey family as they participate in Ramadan. The book provides historical background of Islam, its founder, Muhammad, its holy days and many of the rituals of Islam. The glossary, index, maps and pronunciation add to the usefulness of this well-done, timely book. It is one that should be included in world-religion collections in elementary schools and public library children's collections. 2001, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: J. B. Petty
ISBN: 0823415813
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is a time of fasting and reflection. It begins with the sighting of the new moon, and because of the Islamic lunar calendar, gradually rotates through all of the seasons. It concludes with a three-day feast called Eid al Fitr, a welcome celebration after a month of total fasting from sunrise to sunset everyday. Muslims fast "to show obedience to God's commands...and share the experience of those who are poor." Even a young boy like Ibraheem, a fourth grader in Princeton, New Jersey, knows what it is like to fast. His family's celebration of Ramadan and Eid is beautifully photographed and explained in this book. Many of the scenes look strikingly American—boys playing basketball, children making holiday cookies and wrapping presents, youngsters escaping to their computer games during family celebrations. Other photos are not yet as familiar to most of us—women wearing the traditional hijab or head covering, Ibraheem at prayer facing Mecca or kneeling on the floor, and verses in Arabic from the Koran. "Ibraheem and his family have challenged themselves to live according to God's command. However, since they live in the United States, they are in a minority. Sometimes their ways are misunderstood by others." Celebrating Ramadan is an excellent bridge to begin understanding this fastest growing religion in the United States. 2001, Holiday House, $16.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0823415813
Best Books:
Capitol Choices, 2001 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Celebrations and Festivals
Peter Chrisp
All over the world, people celebrate special occasions. Whether it is an anniversary, calendar, seasonal, or sporting event, certain traditions apply. In this relatively short book, the author presents a wide sampling of these celebrations in a highly stimulating format. Fortunately, the first page of text tells the reader how to use the book. The contents section lets the reader know what occasions are covered. Each topic is given a two-page spread that includes text, brilliant photographs with captions, illustrations, cross-references and a quiz. Some pages include a suggested project, while others have a blue highlighted box with related, interesting facts. Words considered difficult are in bold type and can be found in the glossary at the end of the book. While most of the text is aimed at delivering facts, it is interesting to note that all over the world, people celebrate many occasions in similar ways, exchanging presents, decorating their homes and sharing traditional foods. In Australia, the traditional Christmas meal is turkey with cranberry sauce, just like in America. Because December 25 falls in the middle of the summer, many Aussies eat that meal on the beach! Part of the "Two-Can Discovery Guides" series. 2001 (orig. 1998), Two-Can Publishing, $11.95 and $6.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Barbara Kennedy
ISBN: 1-58728-235-6
ISBN: 1-58728-229-1
Children of Israel
Laurie M.Grossman
This attractive title in the Carolrhoda series "The World's Children" describes Israel from the perspective of different cultural groups. The lifestyle of Ori, who lives in Holon outside of Tel Aviv and wears a key to his apartment around his neck, can be compared to Tadela, an Ethiopian Jew, who lives in a caravanim, a trailer park for new immigrants. Rawan, an Arab Israeli girl celebrates the holiday of Ramadan with her family in Tsur Bahar, while Abba, an Orthodox boy, poses proudly in front of his family's Torah library in Jerusalem. Ethnic foods, such as "hom-homs," the Sephardic dish of fried dough dipped in honey, are described in mouth-watering detail. Each double-page spread is accompanied by large full-color, captioned photographs. The text flows in a smooth narrative, beginning with four pages of historical background that acknowledges Israel as an ancient homeland of the Jews. Holocaust survivors are mentioned as a large group who found refuge in Israel after World War II. While there are no bold subheadings for quick reference, an index leads readers to specific information. Students should enjoy this book as both an informative read and a rich resource for assignments. 2001, Carolrhoda Books, $23.93. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Jackie Hechtkopf
ISBN: 1575054485
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Israel
Shirley W. Gray
While some may choose this book as a good elementary introduction to the country of Israel, this reviewer has problems recommending it because of numerous inaccuracies and omissions that mar its impartiality. For instance, on page 17--"In spring, Muslims celebrate Ramadan." Anyone living through events of 2001 knows that Ramadan makes its appearance in the late fall. Also on page 17, Yom Kippur is described as a fast day, "...means they do not eat or drink until after the sun sets" which is the same description given on page 18 for Ramadan, "They eat and drink only after the sun sets." However, the Yom Kippur fast begins at sunset the night before and lasts 25 hours; it is not the same thing. Again, on page 23, Jerusalem is "...a holy city. Christians believe Jesus Christ spent his last days on Earth in Jerusalem. Muslims believe it is where the prophet Muhammad was taken into heaven." It is not until the bottom of page 24 that Jewish beliefs and claims to the holy city are mentioned, and then only in reference to the Western or Wailing Wall. This bias against the historical realities of the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judaea is unacceptable. The author doesn't even credit the United Nations with creating the modern country of Israel, except in the "Important Dates" section at the end, but says merely (page 8) that "It was formed in 1948 after World War II." For these reasons the book must be passed over by this reviewer. Part of the "First Reports" series. 2002, Compass Point, $21.26. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 0756501296
Light the Candle! Bang the Drum! A book of Holidays Around the World
Ann Morris
Pictures by Peter Linenthal
As the title indicates, this book offers descriptions of a plethora of holidays from around the world. Unfortunately, the information given is so slight that it is nearly useless. The bulk of the book features bright, bold illustrations and short descriptions of the various holidays, many of which fail to even mention the countries in which those holidays are celebrated! A list of "Notes" at the end of the book offers more information for teachers and parents, such as when and where each holiday in the book is celebrated; however, there are several glaring errors, such as the description of Easter as the "day Jesus ascended into heaven." A nonfiction book of holidays geared toward very young children is a wonderful idea, but Morris and Linenthal's attempt leaves much to be desired. 1997, Dutton, $15.99. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewer: Kathleen Kelly
With energetic pictures and a capsule text, toddlers get a quick view of twenty-four holidays from New Year to Kwanzaa, from Carnival to Diwali, from Martin Luther King to Russian Winter Festival. Linenthal's images are joyous and rhythmical. Morris includes more information about each holiday in "Notes" at the end of the book. 1997, Dutton, $15.99. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
Peter Linenthal's playful painted-paper collages capture kids' lively celebrations of 24 holidays--from New Year's Day to Kwanzaa, by way of Eid al-Fitr, Diwali and St. Lucia's Day--in Ann Morris's light-hearted Light the Candle! Bang the Drum! Ms. Morris's sentence-or-two comments on each holiday are for little ones; her concluding specifics on the why, when, and where of each occasion, for their read-alouders. 1997, Dutton, $14.99. Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0525456392
Best Books:
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Ramadan
Suhaib Hamid Ghazi
Illustrated by Omar Rayyan Holiday
This is a kid's level account of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Beginning with an explanation of the lunar calendar, it describes historical and current Islam in terms of Christianity and Judaism, then follows a small boy through a day of fasting, prayers, and fellowship with his family and mosque. The borders and panels in traditional Islamic style are both handsome and evocative. 1996, Holiday House, $15.95 and $6.95. Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
On Eif al-Fitr, Muslims celebrate their success at fasting during Ramadan the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. Suhaid Hamid Ghazi describes how a boy and his family observe the month of fasting and the holiday that acknowledges its end. Traditional Islamic designs border Omar Rayyan's warm images of a contemporary American family. 1996, Holiday, $15.95 and $6.95. Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0823412547
ISBN: 082341275X
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Ramadan
Kieran Walsh
This book provides a straightforward description of the Islamic celebration of Ramadan. Balanced pictures from both the United States and the Middle East show Muslims in various acts of celebrating Ramadan. Key words appear in bold and also in a glossary and index at the back of the book. Well-captioned color photos help illustrate the text's descriptions of new concepts and bring a personal face to the traditions. Additional reading is provided at the back along with two Web sites. Unfortunately, the first of the two appears to no longer be on the Web and the second is from the rather generic About.com site. Part of the "Holiday Celebrations" series, this simple book provides the facts young children wonder about without getting into complex theology. However, even the shortest nonfiction book for young children can benefit from an expert consultant, which this book apparently did not have. It is not the case that "Ramadan usually takes place in the fall or winter". Islam follows a lunar calendar in which each month is slightly shorter than the months on a western calendar, so Ramadan gradually rotates through the entire year. Even young readers could discuss the interesting differences brought by a major holiday that is celebrated sometimes in the winter and sometimes in the summer, especially when the exact starting date of the holiday isn't even known until the moment the new moon is sighted. 2003, Rourke Publishing, Ages 6 to 9, $19.27. Reviewers: Sarah Seage and Karen Leggett
ISBN: 1-58952-223-0
Ramadan: Islamic Holy Month
Terri Sievert
This is an accurate, simply written, and well-photographed discussion of the basic practices and beliefs around Ramadan. As more and more Muslim children come to class talking about this holiday observance at home, it will be helpful to have this type of book in school and classroom libraries. The photos include families in traditional and American-style clothing and surroundings, pre-teen children politely refusing snacks during the day while they are fasting, and large meals of ethnic food to break the fast in the evening. There are photos of a mosque in a Muslim country where hundreds of men are kneeling in prayer, as well as holiday carnival rides in Muslim communities where the Eid al-Fitr feast at the end of Ramadan is a major social event. One page features American Muslim Hakeem Olajuwon, an NBA superstar who played even while he was fasting. One important activity for Muslims during Ramadan is helping people who are poor. There are directions for decorating a collection jar to save or gather money--a craft that transcends any specific religious connection. This book also offers an introduction to a small glossary, resource list, and simple index. The Council on Islamic Education was a consultant for the book that is one of "Capstone's First Facts--Holidays and Culture series." The series also features Chinese New Year, Day of the Dead, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. 2006, Capstone Press, $15.93. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Karen Leggett (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-7368-5392-7
ISBN: 0-7368-5392-8
Remember That
Leslâea Newman,
Illustrated by Karen Ritz
This book tells the touching story of a young girl and her Bubbe. As the years progress, Bubbe moves from her own home to that of her granddaughter and eventually to a nursing home. Bubbe offers many lessons about life, and through all the changes, they continue to celebrate Shabbos and their special relationship. 1996, Clarion, $14.95. Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
It is the Muslim month of Ramadan. Eight-year old Magid's grandfather tells him he's not old enough to fast, but Magid has a will of his own, and fast he does, in secret. It turns out to considerably harder than he has anticipated, however, and he can't even admit to it because the adults would be sure to disapprove. Truth, of course, will out, with consequences that pull this family together in the ending to a gentle and informative book. 1996, Clarion Books, $15.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 0395665892
Best Books:
Booklist: Religion for Youth, 1996; American Library Association; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Islam
19 Varieties Of Gazelle: Poems Of The Middle East
Naomi Shihab Nye
In between the silly poetry of childhood (Mother Goose, Shel Silverstein) and the swirling, metaphoric, sometimes pretentious poetry of adulthood is the gray area of adolescence, when much of the reading done is required for school, and poetry is rarely touched. Many teachers often ask, "How can we make poetry a relevant medium for teenagers?" Naomi Shihab Nye may have the answer with her book of poetry from the Middle East. Teenagers are more interested in current events now than they have been since the Gulf War. This is poetry they can be interested in. The book starts with a tribute poem and an intro concerning the events of September 11. The Gulf War is mentioned explicitly once. The rest of the poems (60 in all) deal with the humanity of Arabs and their daily joys and struggles, so a new generation of readers can learn to appreciate this rich and ancient culture from a new perspective. Nye's words will always be slightly ahead of a teenage reader, but the reader will never feel left behind. These are excellent poems to start an even-handed dialogue on the daily struggle in Israel/Palestine. 2002 (orig. 1994), Greenwillow Books, $16.95. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Carey Ahr
ISBN: 0060097655
ISBN: 0060097663
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 2002; Cahners; United States
Colors of Israel
Laurie Grossman
Illustrations by Helen Byers
Using color as a unifying theme, Grossman introduces readers to the sights, sounds, textures and tastes of Israel. Each color highlights different facets of the country's geography, people and culture. In the gold of Jerusalem's sunset, Grossman paints a picture of a city sacred to Islam, Judaism and Christianity. In the Dead Sea's black mud and the tans of the desert, she conveys a sense of Israel's rugged terrain. And with the yellow robot that the bomb squad moves to an unattended backpack, she skillfully addresses the issue of terrorism and expresses hope for the future. The blues and whites of Israel's flag, the pinks of the raspberry-flavored petel, the welcoming greens of steps and doors, and the oranges of citrus groves carved from the desert become the palate for the soft watercolor illustrations. The name of each of the ten-featured colors is written in English as well as Hebrew and Arabic--reflective of the care given to present a balanced portrait of a land rich in tradition and history. One of the "Colors of the World" series of books. 2002, Carolrhoda, $19.93 and $5.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Ellen R. Braaf
ISBN: 1575053829
ISBN: 1575055236
Daily Life in Ancient and Modern Jerusalem
Diane Slavik
King David established Jerusalem as the Israelite capital in 1000 B.C. In 597 B.C., the city was destroyed by the Babylonians. Later, the Greeks invaded, then the Romans. The bulk of this book recounts Jerusalem's embattled past. Art reproductions, such as Rembrandt's portrait of the prophet Jeremiah weeping, are used in many places as illustrations. The ancient Jewish historian, Josephus, is quoted. Daily menus are described. For example, in King Herod's time, people considered cooked grasshoppers a special treat. The crucifixion of Jesus during Roman rule is given a double-page treatment. Muslim customs and family life are explained. The text clearly portrays Jerusalem's significance to Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Modern Jerusalem is depicted as a bustling city, where the sound of loudspeakers call Muslims to prayer and Orthodox Church bells announce Christian services, while Jews fill the marketplace to buy food for the Sabbath. The prose is direct and readable, but not particularly memorable. There are few unusual facts like cooked grasshoppers to keep the reluctant reader involved. However, students already interested in this subject or in need of resources for a historical report will be satisfied with this offering. A timeline and index are included. 2001, Runestone Press/Lerner, $25.26. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Jackie Hechtkopf
ISBN: 0822532182
Islam
Neil Morris
Muslims make up almost a fifth of the world's population and a growing percentage of the American population. This book, in a series that includes Judaism, Christianity and Buddhism, would be a valuable addition to a school library or classroom. Short, highlighted paragraphs fill each page, surrounded in full color by elaborate illustrations—photographs, maps, artwork, crafts, and Arabic calligraphy. Although the text notes the Islamic restriction on painting or drawing people, there is a page of Turkish miniatures showing the life of Mohammed which many Muslims will criticize and may even find offensive. The wealth of information is presented in easily digested bites, although the pages jump rather randomly among history, faith, and culture. Women are shown in full conservative covering but also with fashionable yet modest head scarves as they hold professional positions in many Muslim countries. Historical sections cover the spread of Islam through Arabia and Asia, to the rich contributions of Islamic culture to art and science to current Muslim history in Bosnia, Palestine and Afghanistan. There is a short glossary and index, but no bibliography and no acknowledgement to any Islamic authority or expert who might have reviewed the text. 2001, McGraw-Hill Children's Publishing, $16.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0872266931
King of the Wind
Marguerite Henry
Illustrated by Wesley Dennis
For young readers who love horses, King of the Wind has long been a classic alongside Marguerite Henry's many other beloved horse stories such as Misty of Chincoteague. This one is the tale based on fact, of a swift and spirited Arabian horse sent by the Sultan of Morocco as a gift to Louis XV of France. Unfortunately, Sham (named for the sun), and his young groom Agba are undervalued by the French and end up in England, where they endure some grueling adventures before the Arabian's true value is understood. Readers will find it fascinating that this horse was an ancestor of many famous thoroughbreds, including Man o'War. Children today may find the style a bit ornate and the story rather too heart-rending, but it's still an absorbing tale with a triumphant finish. First published in 1948 and winner of the 1949 Newbery Medal, King of the Wind has been reissued as part of a "Marguerite Henry Library" in a deluxe edition that is essentially the same as the one in print for so long, but with a few useful additions. The original expressive monochrome watercolors by Wesley Dennis are included, and Henry's publisher at Rand McNally has contributed his personal recollections. These features and a "King of the Wind Scrapbook" with photographs and manuscript notes make it a useful addition to a library and an attractive gift for a thoughtful young horse-lover. 2001 (orig. 1948), Simon and Schuster, $21.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft
ISBN: 0689846975
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
John Newbery Medal Winner 1949 United States
Young Reader's Choice Awards Winner 1951 Pacific Northwest
Muhammad of Mecca: Prophet of Islam
Ella Marston
Now that Islam is the fastest growing religion in America, library shelves need books that introduce students to this faith and its prophet Muhammad. Muhammad was born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia in 570 A.D. He was a trader with a wife and family when God (Allah in Arabic) revealed to him the words of the Islamic holy book, the Koran, changing his life forever. Persecuted by the existing authorities in Mecca, Muhammad fled to the town now called Medina, where he built the first Islamic community. The Muslim calendar is timed from this flight, or hijirah. The pilgrimage that is a duty for each devout Muslim includes a re-creation of this flight between Mecca and Medina. Ella Marston discusses the difference between fact and legend about historical and religious figures like Muhammad. Islam specifically forbids worshipping any human, including Muhammad. It was Muhammad's mission, in fact, to bring people back to the worship of one God and away from paganism. Muhammad built on both Arab and Jewish traditions to make Islam more familiar and appealing to potential followers. This biography also includes many pages of battle strategy, as Muhammad fought to keep and expand Islamic territory. Marston concludes with a brief look at the leadership disputes that followed Muhammad's death, resulting in the split between Shi'ite and Sunni sects of Islam. Part of a "Book Report Biography" series that focuses on people who have changed their own cultures and the world, including Jesus, Michelangelo, Confucius and W.E.B. DuBois. 2001, Grolier Publishing, $22.00 and $3.99. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0531203867
ISBN: 0531155544
Muslim Child: Understanding Islam Through Stories and Poems
Rukhsana Khan
Illustrated by Patty Gallinger
Sidebars by Irfan Alli
Many young children can identify with the trauma of being lost from their parents at a shopping mall or in a park and that is the point of empathy for Rukhsana Khan's story about the Muslim pilgrimage, or hajj, to Mecca. Mecca is crowded with hundreds of thousands of people. A little American boy tells the story of being lost in the midst of the throng and the kindly old man who helps him find his parents. Along the way, young readers learn about this important obligation of the Muslim faith. Congenial, touching, and even humorous stories describe Islamic beliefs as they are practiced by children in America, accompanied by definitions or explanations in the margins. There are several poems, a few short readings from the Quran, a craft and a recipe, as well as a guide to Arabic pronunciation and a timeline for the life of Mohammed. Soft black and white sketches illustrate the text. The stories are very accessible for Muslim and non-Muslim children, read aloud or independently. Several of the stories would be appropriate for school use as an introduction to cultural and ethnic diversity, including one about the difficulty of avoiding pork products as a Muslim in America and another about a Muslim child and his non-Muslim friend who come to understand and accept a mother who dresses head-to-toe in a flowing black robe. "A big black ghost!" said Danny; until the "big black ghost" climbed a tree to rescue Danny when he had climbed too high and pulled a lollipop from the pocket of her black dress. 2002 (orig. 1999), Albert Whitman, $14.95. Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
A window opens on the Muslim world through a child's eyes as one reads the varied stories and poems comprising this book. We learn that, more than a religion, Islam is a way of life for Muslims, who gain peace and status among their people by observing strict rules and rituals in their daily lives. Yet these very processes leave them open to misunderstanding by others who are unaware of their significance. Is that really a black ghost, or could it be simply a child's mother who dresses in black cape and head covering? Is it okay to pretend to complete the complicated washing before prayers five times a day, or may one pray even if not quite perfect in washing? Might one be excused for eating something containing forbidden pork products if one has already bought it and is really hungry? The book presents a sympathetic picture of children stretching to embrace the ways of their religion while fitting into modern life in many countries. This reviewer found the constant refrain of "peace be upon him" following every mention of any of the prophets (including Moses, Abraham, Jesus and Mohammed, among others) rather disconcerting, however, since this book is intended for general audiences rather than Muslim religious instruction. But the sidebars on nearly page, as well as materials following chapters and at the back of the book, provide excellent information while stressing the ties between Judaism, Christianity and Islam and their universal desire for peace. Includes appealing black-and-white illustrations throughout and a pronunciation and script guide. Sidebars by Irfan Alli 2002 (orig. 1999), Whitman, $14.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 0807553077
Religion in Twentieth Century America
Randall Herbert Balmer
In 1910, two California oilmen published a series of booklets about conservative Christian theology called The Fundamentals. The term "fundamentalist" was born and is widely used to this day, and not just for Christians. Although the book's title refers to "religion" in general, it concentrates overwhelmingly on Christianity and particularly on conservative, or fundamentalist, Christianity. There is only fleeting mention of Eastern religions or Islam, now the fastest growing religion in the United States. Jews are highlighted for their role in the civil rights movement, and there is an interesting discussion of the notion of a common "Judeo-Christian tradition," suggesting "a kind of moral consensus between Christians and Jews that has never really existed...but functioned as a code for exclusion." The book is very heavy on text and the few photos are all black-and-white and usually small. This makes for a book that is not immediately appealing, but there are fascinating bits of history and trivia for the student willing to work at finding them. There is a timeline for twentieth century American religious history, a lengthy reading list and a thorough index. 2001, Oxford University Press, $22.00. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0195112954
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Sacred Places
Philemon Sturges
Illustrated by Giles Laroche
In a prefatory note, the reader is introduced to five religious traditions (Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, Christians, and Muslims) so as to be grounded in what follows. And what follows is a beautifully illustrated selection of places that are inspired by faith. The author and illustrator depict buildings such as temples, cathedrals, mosques and abbeys, and places such as the Ganges River, Ghats and Jerusalem. But they end with a moving evocation of the nighttime sky and the statement that "some sacred places aren't made by people at all." The text is two-tiered with a bold, ongoing and simple explanation of how people use sacred places. Near each illustration of a place is a paragraph of nine or ten lines about what goes on there and interesting facts about the building's construction, symbolism and significant events that the place marks. What sets this book apart from other religious overview books are the stunning, collage illustrations, intricately composed to capture shadow, light, perspective and detail in a manner unusual for the medium. Laroche is especially adept at rendering the human face in collage, but the many, tiny architectural and landscape features speak to the care and time it must have taken to produce this work. It is the kind of book a reader pores over rather than uses as research, but with a little patience, an alert reader will find much to add to a report. All in all, a beautiful, peaceful, informative and contemplative book. 2000, G. P. Putnam's Sons, $16.99. Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0399233172
Best Books:
Books About Relationships and Community-Building, 2002; Children's Book Council; United States
Capitol Choices, 2000; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Salaam: A Muslim American Boy's Story
Tricia Brown
Photographs by Ken Cardwell
This interesting twist on Muslims in America is told from the point of view of a young boy whose father is a Muslim immigrant and his mother is an American who converted to Islam. We even learn that the boy's American grandparents "weren't too happy about her changing her religion. But they felt better when they came to understand that there are many similarities between Muslims beliefs and their own." The story openly discusses anti-Islamic sentiments in the United States, although the young boy himself is shown with friends of many different backgrounds. He is often explaining details about his religion to his friends, like the placement of a prayer rug so he can face Mecca when he prays. Unfortunately, we do not learn where the boy's father is from originally, so some of the cultural background is missing. The photography is black-and-white with the appealing spontaneity of a family photo album. There is a good glossary. In fact, that is the only place where the word in the title, salaam, is translated--it means peace. The non-standard typeface is an annoying detail that appears to be an attempt to have letters with a Middle Eastern flair. The book offers a good personal story about a very personable little boy who happens to be a Muslim American. 2006, Henry Holt, $17.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Karen Leggett (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-0-8050-6538-1
ISBN: 0-8050-6538-5
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Updated 8/24/06
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