Lailah's Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story

Lailah solves her problem with help from the school librarian and her teacher and in doing so learns that she can make new friends who respect her beliefs. This gentle, moving story from first-time author Reem Faruqi comes to life in Lea Lyon's vibrant illustrations. Lyon uses decorative arabesque borders on intermittent spreads to contrast the ordered patterns of Islamic observances with the unbounded rhythms of American school days.

"If you're looking for an introduction to Ramadan for young readers (ages 5 to 8), consider this picture book. In the first year, she is able to participate in Ramadan, Lailah finds herself in a new country, far from her native Abu Dhabi. She is excited to fast, but nervous that her classmates will not understand. With the help of a teacher and a librarian, she learns how she can explain Ramadan to her fellow students and make friends who are respectful of her culture." -- Concepcion de Leon - New York Times

"A lovely classroom-friendly introduction to the Muslim month of fasting!" -- Ruhksana Khan, award-winning author and storyteller

Recommended Age: 5-9

About the Author
Reem Faruqi based this book on her own experiences as a young Muslim girl immigrating to the United States. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Lea Lyon is an award-winning children’s book illustrator, painting teacher, and portrait artist who has made a childhood dream come true.