"Today is a big day. It's Sarah's first Eid in her
new country. She plans to spend the day with
family and friends - and collect LOTS of Eidi
money! Then she'll buy candy to share with
her best friend, Jessica, something nice for
Dada ji, flowers for Mama, and a set of
markers so she can draw with her baba."
Ramadan began on Friday, February 28 this year and will encompass a full month of fasting for Muslims around the world. That fasting lasts each day from dawn until sunset; during Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink anything during daylight hours.
Sarah is celebrating Eid in a new country, after the family's move from Pakistan. She and her Mama wish each other Eid Mubarak early in the morning. Sarah extends her Eidi bag toward her mother, who hands her coins. Mama reminds Sarah that asking for Eidi is impolite; she must wait for others to offer it to the young girl. Baba is asked, as is Dada ji, as they enter the kitchen. Both offer money for her small bag.
To say Sarah is excited is an understatement. She is keen to collect her Eidi money and then use it for giving to others. At the celebration, Sarah shares the many wonderful traditions of her family and friends. Showing her Eidi bag to her aunt results in a compliment, but no coins. The same happens with her uncle who is busy saying hello to their guests. Her neighbor Salma reacts in the same way.
It is humbling and sad to learn that traditions in her new home are not the same as they were in Pakistan. As the day passes, Sarah learns that guests will be arriving later than they usually do. It is not an open house all day long. As the guests arrive, they bring food, candies, a plant, flowers, and a gift of markers from Sana Khala. Though her Eidi money bag is not full, Sarah has much more than she ever expected ... including a new use for her bag.
An author's note explains for readers Eid ul-Fitr and the customs that take place during that time. She also includes a welcome glossary of terms that may be unfamiliar to readers. Ms. Delsooz fills the book's spreads with bright colors and interesting details to help young readers understand the celebration.
No comments:
Post a Comment