PreS-Gr 3—This marvelous, welcoming book on mosques, Muslims, and Islam is a must, offering foundational
knowledge on the world's second largest religion in accessible text and sterling illustrations.

This book explains for children what a mosque is and how the religion of Islam is practiced by its adherents, called Muslims.

The little boy who narrates the book tells all about what happens when he attends a mosque, using some Arabic words that are explained in a glossary at the back of the book.

Colorful illustrations by Hatem Aly draw inspiration from the beautiful patterns and colors evident in Islamic architecture, including the trademark domes, arches, niches to indicate the direction of prayer, honeycomb-like ornamentation with geometric motifs and inlays of precious stones, and courtyards.

The little boy talks about the stories and prayers he hears in the mosque, and says:

“In my mosque, we end our prayers by greeting the angels on our shoulders who watch over us day and night. My angels cheer me on as I whisper heartfelt wishes and hope they all come true!”

He observes: “In my mosque, we pray for peace, love, and joy . . . just like my friends who worship in churches, temples, and synagogues.”

Back matter includes “All About Mosques,” the glossary, a brief Author’s Note, and a list of “Many Famous and Historic Mosques Throughout the World.”

This book provides a welcome contrast to the common portraits in the media of mosques as hotbeds of terrorism. While some terrorists have historically met up in mosques, terrorists of all kinds now meet up online. Mosques as well as other religious institutions are now more the targets of terrorists than havens for them.

Evaluation: This book will teach kids that mosques are centers of spirituality and community, valued by Muslims in the same ways as other buildings for religious worship are valued by the entities that constructed them.

In addition, thanks to Aly’s artwork, children may be introduced to Islamic architecture, which is so beautiful that even during discrimination against Muslims in Europe and appropriation of their places of worship, no one could bring themselves to destroy them. (People yes, buildings, no.) In any event, parents and teachers can direct kids to amazing pictures online of the Great Mosque of Córdoba in Spain, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, or the amazing Alhambra complex in Granada, Spain to name a few, to see outstanding examples of architecture not often seen in America. ( )

This book is a phenomenal gateway for children to understanding the Muslim religion through a story about a visit to a mosque paired together elaborate, colorful illustrations. The author takes care to take children, page by page, through different parts of a Mosque, to see who does and says what. The warm tone of the authors words combined with all the diverse, smiling people in the illustrations makes the reader feel just as at home as the author does. Growing up, all I knew about Mosques were that Muslim people went there to celebrate their faith. I have never been inside of one, so this was as much as a journey of discovery for me as it would be for a child just learning about what a Mosque is. Children should learn at a young age to appreciate all types of cultures. Teaching diversity is essential to creating a well-rounded, respectful future member of society. The themes of community, friendship, inclusivity, and love come across in every single illustration as much as they do in every single word of the story. I believe this book should be read by all children.

Genre: Diverse Literature
Sub-Genre: Picture Book