Book Review: Once Upon an Eid edited by S.K. Ali and Aisha Saeed

Eid. A religious holiday celebrated by many around the world. A time of celebration and joy for the Muslim community. These authors share their love for memories of this special holiday and the magic it holds.

This book is a great place to start if you know nothing about Eid or Muslim culture. The stories are warm and inviting with a wonderful mix of culture, from words and phrases in languages to references to traditional and religious clothing and the feeling they evoke for the characters like in the story "Perfect". The stories are relatable to most readers which helps to make connections to the culture and traditions that may be different from their own. There are also illustrations throughout the text that show characters celebrating Eid. Some are dressed in hijabs and other traditional or religious clothing while others choose to wear Western clothing. Each of the authors is a powerhouse in their own right but their stories work beautifully together.

"Whether making or buying special foods—Eid brownies, doughnuts, lontong—or taking care of younger siblings, these young heroes and heroines help make Eid special for others." -Kirkus Review

Book Information:

Ali, S. K. & Saeed, A. (2020). ONCE UPON AN EID: STORIES OF HOPE AND JOY BY 15 MUSLIM VOICES. New York: Amulet. ISBN 9781419740831