Under My Hijab
What’s inside...
Under My Hijab explores the diverse ways six women wear the hijab, reflecting their personal styles and the possibilities it holds for a young girl dreaming of her future. Through sprightly rhymes and vibrant illustrations, the book honors the individuality of Muslim women and girls, their loving relationships, and their pride in their culture and faith. Grandma wears it clasped under her chin. Aunty pins hers up with a beautiful brooch. Jenna puts it under a sun hat when she hikes. Zara styles hers to match her outfit. As a young girl observes six very different women in her life who each wear the hijab in a unique way, she also dreams of the rich possibilities of her own future, and how she will express her own personality through her hijab. Written in sprightly rhyme and illustrated by a talented newcomer, Under My Hijab honors the diverse lives of contemporary Muslim women and girls, their love for each other, and their pride in their culture and faith.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How does the hijab in the story make the characters feel proud or special?
What did you learn about why some people choose to wear a hijab?
How do the women in the book express themselves differently when wearing a hijab?
Can you think of something special that we wear in our family that makes us feel connected or proud?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes without fear of judgment. Highlight the beauty of diversity and personal choice that is depicted in the story. Relate the story to your child’s own experiences with culture, clothing, and identity to make the discussion more meaningful. Lastly, consider using visual aids, like pictures or actual examples of a hijab, to enhance understanding and connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Diversity and Acceptance
Explanation: Under My Hijab showcases various women wearing hijabs in different roles. By presenting characters as artists, doctors, athletes, and more, it highlights that people are diverse and can be successful in various fields regardless of their attire.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences in their everyday interactions, helping them to become more inclusive and accepting of people from different backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Empowerment and Self-expression
Explanation: The book portrays characters who choose to wear the hijab as a form of self-expression and cultural identity, empowering them to be proud of who they are. It teaches that personal choices should be respected and celebrated.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of expressing themselves and respecting others' choices too, whether it's through clothing, hobbies, or beliefs, promoting a supportive community environment.
Example Lesson: Role Models and Inspiration
Explanation: By showing women in various professional and personal roles, the book encourages young girls to aspire to be whatever they want to be, irrespective of societal norms. It demonstrates that role models come in various forms.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to look up to diverse figures in their own lives, understanding that ambition and success are not limited by external appearances but driven by skills and passion.
Example Lesson: Family Relationships and Traditions
Explanation: The protagonist observes her grandmother, mother, and other women in her family wearing hijabs in different styles, revealing a deep familial connection and continuation of cultural traditions.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of family bonds and traditions, fostering a sense of identity and belonging that can be shared across generations.