Updated 16 September 2008
Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr is an inspiring book written by Azra Jessa of Ridgewood, New Jersey at the young age of 8 years. Published by Tahrike Tarsile Quran (TTQ), this publication is a colorful picture book written from the perspective of a young girl that explains what Ramadhan and Eid-u l-Fitr are all about. It is very easy to understand for children and makes a wonderful resource which can also be used to explain the concepts of Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr to non-Muslims.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Amazon.com published an editorial review that describes the book by saying, “Twelve-year-old Azra Jessa wrote and illustrated this sweetly simple picture book when she was only eight years old, because she wanted to share her favorite holidays — Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr — with her classmates. Children read about how the beginning and end of Ramadhan is based on the lunar calendar. They learn what it is like to fast for 30 days, along with the meaning behind and the motivation for the fast. Lastly, she explains what a typical Eid-ul-Fitr, the day after the month of Ramadhan, is like in her family. Charming computer illustrations complement this candid glimpse into a child’s spiritual life.”
Through this book, Azra has a special way of expressing her feelings as she observes her first fast and what it makes her realize. In addition to clarifying the issues about who is ‘required’ to fast, the book beautifully illustrates the concept of giving and caring which is so important Islam.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Azra Jessa was born in Toronto, Canada. She and her family moved to Michigan for 2 years and then to New Jersey for 8 years. She is now 13 years old and lives in Waterloo, Belgium and is the youngest of 3 siblings. Whilst in Belgium, she single handedly created a website www.shiasisters.net for the benefit of young Shia sisters around the world. In her interview with Mujtaba Magazine, Azra commented: “I feel that when a girl reaches the age of nine and starts wearing hijab, she needs to identify with other sisters. But, it would be difficult if she attends an American or International school. So a website specifically made for young Shia sisters will be able to fill that gap and provide them with a place to meet others like themselves, share ideas, thoughts, artwork, recitations, etc.”
Azra enjoys reciting the Qur’an, Du’as and Nasheeds. She also used to recite majalis in English but has not been able to recite more as Belgian Shias don’t speak English. Azra is also on her school’s soccer and basketball teams and plays softball with the Brussels Sports Association.
DEDICATION:
Azra has dedicated this book to the children of Iraq, where children continue to suffer and are not able to observe and celebrate Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr like her. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of each book supports orphans in Iraq.
A WONDERFUL RESOURCE:
This book is ideal for a young Muslim child who is trying to understand the concept of fasting. Madrasah’s, Islamic Schools and secular schools would also benefit greatly by using this book as a teaching tool. In addition, this book can be shared with non-Muslim neighbors, friends, and their children.
TO PURCHASE:
Ramadhan and Eid-ul-Fitr is available in both soft cover ($7.95) and hard cover ($12.95) and can be purchased from the following websites:
www.amazon.com
www.amazon.co.uk
www.amazon.ca
www.onlineislamicstore.com
www.islamicbookstore.com
www.barnesandnble.com
www.koranusa.org
www.al-khoei.org
To view the article posted in the Ridgewood News, click here
To view the poster, click here
For further information, email read@koranusa.org