Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
A child embraces the depth of Eid's meaning in this lively experiential picture book. Ibraheem loves Eid, "the most perfectly perfect day in the whole entire year"--for its games, its snacks, and, most of all, its presents. When he can't find his gifts hidden at home, he wonders what's gone awry. A visit to the mosque with his father reveals that they're not secreted there, either--and sees Ibraheem taking note of other rituals. As the pair return home to family, food, and cuddles, Baba asks Ibraheem to reflect on the meaning of Eid: "Presents are nice, little one... but hasn't today been about so much more than that?" In conversational text that highlights a child's enthusiasm for the holiday, Islam leans into themes of faith, joy, and wonder, while Adani's unlined illustrations incorporate geometric patterns and depict Ibraheem, shown with brown skin, as part of a diverse community portrayed with various abilities and skin tones. Ages 4--6. (Feb.)
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Young Ibraheem learns that celebrating Eid is about more than just receiving gifts. Eid is "the most perfectly perfect" day of the year, with so much to look forward to--especially presents. Every Eid, Ibraheem searches the house for gifts; this year, none can be found anywhere. Did everyone forget? Are there no presents this year? Ibraheem and Baba walk to the mosque for the special Eid prayer, and soon Ibraheem is swept away by daydreams of ice cream, the imam's Eid-day stories, and the movements of the prayer. When the two return to their house, wrapped in festive cheer, Ibraheem is once more disappointed at the lack of presents, but Baba encourages the little one to reflect. Isn't there more to Eid than gifts? Islam's tale is centered on an important holiday for Muslims but contains a message relevant to children observing many other holidays. Ibraheem learns that the greatest gift is time spent with family and community, with cherished moments like shared meals, fun games, and tender embraces. Perfectly matching Ibraheem's emotional ebbs and swells, Adani's illustrations feature layers of vibrant colors and a variety of patterns that give them depth and complexity. Ibraheem and the family are cued as South Asian and are a part of a diverse community. A joyous look into an important holiday that both informs and encourages introspection.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
