Hannah and the Ramadan Gift
What’s inside...
The debut picture book by author and human rights activist Qasim Rashid that celebrates good deeds during the month of Ramadan. It's the first day of Ramadan and Hannah wants to be a part of this important month every way she can. But if she's too young to fast, how can she observe Ramadan? By saving the world, Dada Jaan tells her. And so Hannah learns that by helping her friends and neighbors and by showing kindness and generosity, she can make the world a better place. The debut picture book by human rights activist and attorney Qasim Rashid tells a timely story full of warmth and heart about the observance of Ramadan and the power of good deeds.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Hannah to give gifts during Ramadan?
How do you think giving gifts made Hannah and her friends feel?
What did you learn about Ramadan and why it is important to Hannah's community?
Can you think of ways we can help others like Hannah did in the story?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable reading environment and ensure that you both have enough time to talk about the book without feeling rushed.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences and traditions.
Ask open-ended questions that inspire thoughtful responses, rather than those that can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no'.
Use the themes of the book to discuss the value of generosity and community in your own lives.
Revisit parts of the book if your child shows interest in a particular theme or character, allowing them to explore deeper meanings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Hannah learns about the importance of understanding and supporting others during Ramadan, especially those in need.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to notice when someone might need help or kindness in their day-to-day interactions, promoting a more empathetic society.
Example Lesson: Value of Sharing
Explanation: Through the story, Hannah discovers the joy and importance of sharing food and resources with those less fortunate, a key aspect of Ramadan.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by sharing snacks, toys, or their time with friends or community members, teaching them the importance of generosity.
Example Lesson: Importance of Traditions
Explanation: Hannah gets involved in her family's and community's Ramadan traditions, learning to appreciate the customs passed down through generations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and partake in their own cultural or family traditions, understanding their heritage and fostering a sense of belonging.
Example Lesson: Community Engagement
Explanation: The book showcases how participating in community activities during Ramadan helps strengthen communal bonds.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to take part in community events, whether through school, local organizations, or neighborhood gatherings, enhancing social cohesion.
Example Lesson: Personal Growth and Reflection
Explanation: Hannah reflects on her own actions and strives to be a better person throughout the month of Ramadan.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to reflect on their own habits and consider ways they might improve or help others, encouraging personal development from an early age.