January 16

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Holiday Stories that Resonate: Ramadan, Eid-al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha by M.O. Yuksel

Posted by on January 16, 2024 in Author Posts | Leave a comment

Traveling and immersing ourselves in different cultures has the power to transform us, serving as one of the most effective ways to unite people across different backgrounds, and challenging preconceived notions. But when we can’t travel in person, the next best alternative is to travel vicariously through the pages of books.

This was my intention when I wrote my new book, Ramadan Kareem. It’s an invitation to readers to embark on a literary journey across continents and countries. Through the pages, readers can explore how the month of Ramadan is observed by various cultures and people around the globe, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of people and practices during this sacred time.

Ramadan Kareem is my ode to a very special month of increased spirituality, charity, and worship. Ramadan, which is observed by over 1.9 billion people across the globe, starts with the sighting of the new moon and ends with the joyful holiday, Eid al-Fitr.

Through the pages of the book, we travel to many countries including Australia, Senegal, Indonesia, Spain, and Korea and indulge in the cultural sights and sounds like waking up early to the beat of a drum for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, performing acts of kindness throughout the day, and savoring a communal feast at iftar, the fast breaking meal.

After a month of fasting, families come together to celebrate a festive Eid al-Fitr.

The second major Muslim holiday is Eid al-Adha. There aren’t many picture books about this holiday and that’s why I’m so excited to share my second new book coming out in April, Sami’s Special Gift. In this heartwarming story, Sami, who loved to celebrate his favorite holiday with his grandfather, is having a difficult time this year.

Until a special gift arrives from across the globe to remind Sami about how his grandfather would have wanted him to celebrate and honor not only the holiday, but his life through acts of kindness like charity, gratitude, and sharing.

In writing this story, my intention was to highlight the important values of Eid al-Adha such as charity, gratitude, empathy, and compassion. But as the story developed, different layers evolved such as the profound intergenerational bond shared between a grandparent and grandchild and grieving and honoring the loss of a loved one.

I hope you’ll enjoy traveling and transforming through these stories, as much as I enjoyed writing them.

Mindy 1M.O. Yuksel lived on three continents before settling down in the Garden State with her family. She writes award-winning books for young readers, including picture books, IN MY MOSQUE, and ONE WISH. She has a passion for research and learning and loves to write about little-known historical figures, and diverse cultures. Visit her at: http://www.moyuksel.com