Moon’s Ramadan

by Natasha Khan Kazi

With radiant and welcoming art, this debut picture book and modern holiday classic captures the magic and meaning of one of the world's most joyful and important celebrations.

It's Ramadan, the month of peace, and Moon watches over Ramadan traditions with excitement and longing in this sweetly illustrated debut.

In Egypt, India, Argentina, and United Arab Emirates, in Somalia, New Zealand, and Indonesia, in Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States, children and their families do good deeds in honor of those who have less.

Cleverly blending glimpses of different countries' celebrations with the corresponding phases of the moon, Moon's Ramadan makes Ramadan, one of the world's most widely celebrated traditions, accessible and exciting for all readers. Includes robust and easy-to-understand back matter.

Genres: Picture Books, Holiday, Muslims, Religion, Childrens, Nonfiction, Cultural

Unknown Binding

Published February 28, 2023

Reviews

[Shirin Shamsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moon’s Ramadan by author/illustrator Natasha Khan Kazi is absolutely beautiful! Her lyrical words, and luminous art work, weave an engaging story of Ramadan. Told from the unique perspective of the moon, the story highlights all the traditions of Ramadan practiced in different countries across the world.
With endnotes providing layers of learning, this is an exceptionally rich story, both entertaining and educational.

[Jennifer Bertman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully illustrated, lyrically written picture book about Ramadan told through the perspective of the Moon watching celebrations happening around the world. A wonderful book that I highly recommend adding to your picture book collection!

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moon loves to watch over the world. They see the world celebrate the month-long celebration of Ramadan.
A month-long celebration of peace, charity, fasting, reflection, and the movement of the moon which ends with Eid-al-Fitr is recognized all over the world by many.
Did you know that there are 1.8 Billion Muslims in the world, making it the second largest religion internationally?
From Argentina to Somalia, Egypt to New Zealand, Dubai to the United Kingdom, Indonesia to the United States, traditions of sadaqah jars to fawanees, henna to moon spotting, are rejoiced amongst Muslims across the world.
I truly had no idea of the many facets of Ramadan, even with having read other books on the topic. This children's book perfectly captures both Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr and explains it very well, from the moon's perspective.
I also loved that this was Natasha Khan Kazi's debut book. She illustrates it beautifully, explains everything from the Moon's perspective wonderfully, and I look forward to many more wonderful picture books from her.

If you are a teacher, educator, homeschool grown-up or librarian who works with young people, I highly encourage you to ingest this book, share it, and celebrate some (if not all) of the unique traditions and significance of Ramadan.

[Lannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend of all the recent (within the last year or so) Ramadan children’s books we’ve read. Correlates Ramadan to the phases of the moon, and depicts the Ramadan festivities in varying countries across the globe, which we much enjoyed.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lush, colorful, gorgeous picture book celebrating and explaining Ramadan. Used with the resources at the end, this is a wonderful way for all of us to learn about and understand this important celebration of the Islamic people.

[Karen Greenwald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and illustrated by Natasha Khan Kazi, this picture book gives a moon's eye view of how people around the world celebrate Ramadan--but the journey into this story actually begins with the end papers. Natasha weaves her story and words through every visual. Her lyrical tale introduces people of all faiths to the beauty of this special time. Under the watchful eye of the moon, each spread indicates how those in a particular country celebrate. The reader's journey around the world even highlights ways those of other faiths can share in the joy. MOON'S RAMADAN is as touching in its wording as it is in the colorful and heartfelt illustrations! Backmatter includes both visual explanations of key items, the lunar cycle, and a detailed glossary. I think the moon would agree that this is a beautiful book to be shared with children of all backgrounds!

[Jyoti Gopal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gorgeously illustrated and beautifully written book - and so informative! Cleverly told from the Moon’s point of view, this Ramadan story shares the traditions of this Muslim holiday and the ways in which it is celebrated around the world. Bathed in lush shades of purples and blues, each page is filled with intricate details to catch the eye. Moon’s Ramadan will serve not only as a lovely resource to introduce Ramadan and Eid but as a great entry into conversations about the diversity of Islam, and the many different ways that religion and culture intermingle and intertwine. Author/Illustrator Natasha Khan Khazi also provides us with a subtle lesson on the phases of the moon – check out the book to see how she does it!

[Lydia Lukidis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately sold on Natasha Khan Kazi's book Moon’s Ramadan both by its poetic title and stunning cover. The story itself is spectacular; I loved the dual aspect Kazi helps readers become familiar with the celebration of Ramadan, as told through the eyes of the changing moon, helping children understand the moon's cycle at the same time. I also enjoyed the fact that the various spreads depicted the same celebration being celebrated in different places around the globe. Kazi's words and illustrations come alive in Moon’s Ramadan, a must read for people of all faiths and backgrounds.
FYI this is an honest review for a digital ARC I received.

[Jessica Stremer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, everything about this book is absolutely lovely. The lyrical language conveys such emotion as readers learn about both Ramadan and the phases of the moon. I especially love how the story takes place in different countries around the world. The illustrations are gorgeous and pair beautifully with the text.

[Gayatri Sethi Desi Book Aunty · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic addition to our picture books - Ramadan around the world brought to life with lyrical text & shimmering illustrations.

Every page offers new details to marvel about.

Truly a delightful book to add to our holiday gifting & celebrations.

Educator note: this lovely book lends itself to plenty of lessons about Muslim holidays, world geography & much more.

[Aya Khalil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful picture book by debut author/illustrator Natasha Khan Kazi. I love seeing and celebrating Ramadan from the point of view of the moon. So many countries and traditions to learn from. Kids and adults will love the gorgeous illustrations that are so vibrant and lively.

[Maleeha Siddiqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, this was so beautiful in both prose and illustrations. I love how the book is told through Moon's perspective as Ramadan is observed throughout the world. It feels so deeply personal. This belongs in every home and in every library!

[Jilanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully illustrated book shows a gentle moon first smiling down at Earth, watching the preparations for Ramadan and then observing the joyful activities and traditions of those who observe Ramadan in different countries around the world. The reader learns that Ramadan is a month of peace, of appreciation, and of doing good deeds. One is to focus on being kind and thoughtful and generous. The reader also learns that fasting during the daylight hours of Ramadan is a way for Muslims to learn patience and gratitude. Moon watches with happiness as children deliver baskets of tasty goodies to friends and relatives, and as religious leaders encourage people to be charitable and kind. I love the phrase that opens the book, and that is then used in the same or slightly different form as a refrain: In the purple veil of twilight, Moon smiles at Earth. It immediately sets the tone of lyricism and gentleness that pervades this story, fitting for a book about a month of peace. The last few pages focus on Eid, the light-filled celebration after Ramadan is over. Back matter includes a glossary with definitions for different words use throughout, and information about the phases of the moon and how Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar, as opposed to the Gregorian calendar that's based on the solar calendar. So much goodness here, it's like the joyful spirit of Ramadan lives within these pages. This review is based on a PDF ARC provided by the publisher.

[Shifa Safadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new #Ramadanread for the year and one that just warms the heart with its sweet illustrations and gorgeous words.

Author AND Illustrator: Natasha Khan Kazi
Publisher: Versify, HarperCollins
Preorder before the Feb 28 release date to offer support for Muslim authors and creatives❤️

Moon is so excited for Ramadan. Smiling down with its crescent smile, it watches us people prepare for the first day of Ramadan from the sky in Egypt. Each day Moon is shown from a different country all over the world in gorgeous illustrations, and with a different moon phase. There are Egypt, Somalia, India, the UK, Indonesia, America, New Zealand, Dubai, Argentina, and Turkiye. It beautifully displays little tidbits from each culture like architectural buildings and cultural influences, such as food and clothing.

The words are lyrical in the story flows, showing how moon is so excited to see all the beauty of Ramadan throughout the month until Eid. My favorite part was when moon disappears the night before the Eid crescent appears- showing that light always appears after darkness❤️

I also really love that the United States was shown as a melting pot of cultures with different people of different religions and backgrounds, joining together to celebrate as one! 💕

Check out this gorgeous book just in time for reading before Ramadan!

[Marzieh Abbas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Natasha's sweet illustrations bring Moon to life in this lovely Ramadan tale. It reminded me a lot of Ramadan Around the World, with all the lovely traditions celebrated in different countries around the globe. This book talks about the phases of the moon in a way easy for children to understand and builds up anticipation for the Muslim holiday--Eid that rounds up this month of fasting and peace.
I love that this book will serve as a mirror and a window for children and adults, alike.
The Muslim terms and traditions sprinkled in the story and explained in the back matter are lovely- Taraweeh, Zakaat, Sadqa etc.
The colors and lyrical language are simply magical.
I can picture this book as a springboard for so many discussions- the diversity within the religion of Islam, the mingling of traditions and religion, the shared sense of community, the phases of the moon and how the moon is always present, even when we can't see it!
I reviewed an ARC provided by the publisher.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author/illustrator Natasha Khan Kazi makes her debut with this visually stunning celebration of Ramadan, told through the eyes of the moon. This proves to be a clever narrative structure, as the celebration begins on a crescent moon and it allows Kazi to show how Ramadan is celebrated throughout the world, from India to Indonesia, Somalia to the US. In keeping with this motif, the end pages show the phases of the moon. I accessed a digital ARC.

[Tiffany Hough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely, educational picture book about Ramadan and the specific ways it is celebrated around the world.

[Mrs Heidrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book full of information!

[Aneesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very sweet and educational, though I felt kind of bad for Moon

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book shows Ramadan traditions from Muslim communities throughout the world. Framing it through the perspective of the moon makes it extra sweet for young readers. This is a must-have for libraries!

[Ellen Leventhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in awe of author/illustrators, and the talented Natasha Khan Kazi is no exception. She weaves words and pictures expertly into this beautiful book about Ramdan told from the point of view of the moon. This is such a unique and clever way to tell her story. The language and illustrations pull the reader into the story immediately, and what could be a list of what people do during Ramadan is instead a journey into a lovely holiday. This book is perfect for people of all faiths. Children need both mirrors and windows. I highly recommend this book.

[Kelsey Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

MOON'S RAMADAN is at once stunningly beautiful, educational, and inclusive. Its vivid illustrations and lovely, lyrical text offer a soaring celebration of Ramadan traditions around the world, while gently teaching readers about the multitude of ways Ramadan is observed. The story is uniquely told through the perspective of the Moon, which anchors the story and engages readers, and adds a soothing tone. Back matter provides context about Islam, phases of the moon, and vocabulary. I highly recommend MOON'S RAMADAN for any children's bookshelf. ***I accessed a digital ARC.

[Reem Faruqi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a stunning debut book from Natasha Khan Kazi!

Kazi's lines are lyrical and as magical as the moon art she has created. Lines like this resonated with me:

- Moon marvels as friends of different faiths share a meal to celebrate.
Together, they rise like bread.

- In the purple veil of twilight, Moon smiles at Earth.

- I also loved when Moon speaks, "You can't see me, but I am always here for you."

----
The art is dreamy and has hues like the purple veil of twilight that will encourage readers to linger over the pages. The starry art is splendidly illustrated.

I loved how Moon looks down on Earth and each page travels to a different and beautiful part of the world celebrating Ramadan. This story felt like a cozy hug from the Moon!

Muslim children today are so lucky to have many beautiful Ramadan books to choose from today. This Ramadan book stands out for its unique perspective of being told from the Moon's point of view- genius!

For teachers, this book is a must-have for the classroom. It touches on geography around the world and the scientific lunar phases of the moon. Muslim children will feed pride to see themselves reflected back in these stunning pages.

A lovely book that I cannot wait to hold in my hands! I cannot wait for more beautiful books from Natasha Khan Kazi.

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely illustrations and a moonlit palette of color introduce the observance of Ramadan to both children who celebrate and those and may be less familiar.

[M.O. Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moon’s Ramadan by Natasha Khan Kazi is a gorgeous picture book that skillfully weaves in the STEM elements of the phases of the moon and information about the holy month of Ramadan. Told from the point of view of the moon, we travel to different parts of the world, experience Ramadan, and celebrate Eid. The illustrations are colorful with lush hues of purples and blues, and each page is filled with beautiful details. Back matter includes a glossary, author’s note, and information about the phases of the moon. A must-have for any children’s bookshelf!

[Tameka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! I learned so much about Ramadan from this beautifully rendered picture book! Told from the perspective of the moon, who witnesses the observance of Ramadan globally--the text is graceful, the illustrations are gorgeous, and the book + backmatter is extremely educational. A very re-readable book. Highly recommend.

[Sirah · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's Ramadan, and the moon is excited to take part in the festivities.

This cozy little book gives examples of how Ramadan is celebrated around the world and reminds us that we all live under the same moon.

[Carol Gordon Ekster · Rating 5 out of 5]

So beautifully written and informative about the holiday of Ramadan. Lovely illustrations in Natasha's debut picture book as an author/illustrator.

[Kirin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful lyrical book has a simple premise of the moon looking down on people celebrating Ramadan as it circles the Earth, but stands out as being unique thanks to the poetic language and engaging illustrations.  Each spread shows moon in a different phase over a different country, and the joy, activities and worship that Muslims are partaking in during the blessed month.  I'm embarrassed to say, I didn't realize that the author is also the illustrator until I sat down to write this review, and honestly it makes sense, as the story text and illustrations work seamlessly together.  The tone of the book, the details in the pictures, and the rich language make this a good read for a large audience.  Little ones probably won't fully understand the poetry, but they will be mesmerized none-the-less and feel the excitement.  My three year old calls the moon all year round, the "Ramadan Moon" and he understood that the Moon in the story is excited seeing us celebrate and worship.  He consistently would still be peeking in windows or searching the scenes, not quite ready for me to turn the page long after the text was done being read.  Older kids will appreciate the shared global bonds of Muslims and the cultural specifics too.  They will grasp the information shared and beliefs touched upon in the flowing words that do not preach.  My only criticism is that the book starts with Moon saying, "Hello."  In an Islamic centered book I would have expected to see Assalamualaikum used, especially since it appears on the page where moon is above Egypt, so I'm not sure why the English greetings is used.  The book has a glossary and notes at the end making it a great addition to Muslim and non Muslim spaces alike.  I plan to read the book for a Masjid story time as the large hardback book will work just as well for a group of kids as it does at bed time.

Told from a personified Moon's perspective, the book begins with Moon smiling at Earth as people all over the world excitedly point and look up at her, but once they see her, they rush off to prepare for the month. Over Turkey, the Ramadan Drummer awakens sleepy people for suhoor and over Indonesia he sees families gathering for iftar. As each day passes Moon grows fuller watching the children do good deeds and people sharing their wealth.

Nights of Taraweeh and listening to the Quran over Somalia, sharing treats in the United Kingdom, and  interfaith among neighbors in the United States bring joy to Moon.  And as the waning crescent sees henna being put on hands in Dubai the month is coming to an end.  People once again look to the sky, but they cannot see Moon in Argentina, Moon is new.  It is Chaand Raat and then it is Eid.  Moon is back in Egypt watching people celebrate and then the world returns to looking up at Moon and she beams with love and gratitude.

[Evalynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic. The cover is inviting. The stars and letters even shimmer. The colors throughout are wonderful, including lots of rich purples and blues. I very much appreciate the story this book tells, showing children (and curious adults!) the ways Muslims celebrate Ramadan, and why. The definitions at the end of the book are also a helpful reference. I especially liked the definition for fasting, which reads: "During Ramadan, Muslims do not drink or eat from dawn to dusk. Muslims fast to strengthen their self-discipline, gratitude, and patience."

The independent bookstore I work for received a copy of this book the other day, and having a partner who was raised Muslim, I feel tender towards any that arrive relating to Islam. I felt particularly drawn to this book especially, as it includes the two countries he grew up in, celebrating. It brought me even more understanding of the beauty of Ramadan, and of my partner's character and peaceful demeanor. I have added it to our home children's collection, in the hope that it may serve as a reference for our own kids someday about what it means to their father to fast. That Ramadan is, as the book reminds us,"a month of peace." A time to give back to our community, to reflect, and to be grateful for what we have.