Summary: In this book the main character explains the different woman in her life and how each of them has a specific way of wearing their hijab. For each woman, the character explains their careers as well their hairstyles while not wearing the hijab at home. Since this book is very cheerful and simple, I would say that this book is best suited for children in preschool- third grade.
Book Evaluation: I absolutely loved this book! Specifically, I loved how it empowered Muslim women. This book did a fantastic job of showing examples of how Muslims women can be successful and impactful in the community. Additionally, I loved the way the author used rhyming text to make connections between the women’s careers and how she wears her hijab. I think it was interesting how the author explained the women’s hairstyles while at home when not wearing their hijab. This information really helped me to understand each of the women and their personalities. Finally, the illustrations are so realistic that I think any young girl who may identify as Muslim could see herself through these images. I would absolutely use this book in my classroom and am shocked I have never heard of it before.
Inclusive Perspectives: This book would be a mirror for any young girl that may identify as Muslim or wear a hijab. I think this book provides an excellent reflection on how the women wear their hijab in their daily careers yet how they can still represent their selves and their personalities. Additionally, I think any young girls would be able to see how the wonderful and smart woman in their own life are able to make an impact in the community. This book would be a window for any young girl or non-Muslim child that may have questions about the hijab. I love how this book shows a culturally accurate representation of contemporary Muslim women. I think it’s important that the author explain that while Muslim women wear the hijab in public, they are able to uncover while in the presence of their own family at home.
Classroom Implications: Before reading this book, I would love to have students read the biographies of the author and illustrator. Both the author and illustrator identify as Muslim thus I think by having the students learn more about both individuals really helps support the purpose and meaning behind this book. I think again it provides students good perspective on the contemporary careers of two Muslim women and empowers social justice for each group. Following reading, I would also like students to select one illustration from the book that spoke to them the most. After picking an image students would reflect on the illustration and explain what stood out to them as well as how it made them feel and what it made them think of. I think for young learners this would be a great way for students to reflect on the text and make connections.
References Khan, H., & Jaleel, A. (2019). Under my Hijab. Lee & Low Books.
Summary: In this book the main character explains the different woman in her life and how each of them has a specific way of wearing their hijab. For each woman, the character explains their careers as well their hairstyles while not wearing the hijab at home. Since this book is very cheerful and simple, I would say that this book is best suited for children in preschool- third grade.
Book Evaluation: I absolutely loved this book! Specifically, I loved how it empowered Muslim women. This book did a fantastic job of showing examples of how Muslims women can be successful and impactful in the community. Additionally, I loved the way the author used rhyming text to make connections between the women’s careers and how she wears her hijab. I think it was interesting how the author explained the women’s hairstyles while at home when not wearing their hijab. This information really helped me to understand each of the women and their personalities. Finally, the illustrations are so realistic that I think any young girl who may identify as Muslim could see herself through these images. I would absolutely use this book in my classroom and am shocked I have never heard of it before.
Inclusive Perspectives: This book would be a mirror for any young girl that may identify as Muslim or wear a hijab. I think this book provides an excellent reflection on how the women wear their hijab in their daily careers yet how they can still represent their selves and their personalities. Additionally, I think any young girls would be able to see how the wonderful and smart woman in their own life are able to make an impact in the community. This book would be a window for any young girl or non-Muslim child that may have questions about the hijab. I love how this book shows a culturally accurate representation of contemporary Muslim women. I think it’s important that the author explain that while Muslim women wear the hijab in public, they are able to uncover while in the presence of their own family at home.
Classroom Implications: Before reading this book, I would love to have students read the biographies of the author and illustrator. Both the author and illustrator identify as Muslim thus I think by having the students learn more about both individuals really helps support the purpose and meaning behind this book. I think again it provides students good perspective on the contemporary careers of two Muslim women and empowers social justice for each group. Following reading, I would also like students to select one illustration from the book that spoke to them the most. After picking an image students would reflect on the illustration and explain what stood out to them as well as how it made them feel and what it made them think of. I think for young learners this would be a great way for students to reflect on the text and make connections.
References
Khan, H., & Jaleel, A. (2019). Under my Hijab. Lee & Low Books.