Under My Hijab by Hena Khan
Today’s Perfect Picture Book Friday pick is UNDER MY HIJAB.
Written by: Hena Khan
Illustrated by: Aaliya Jaleel
Publisher: Lee & Low Books, February 5, 2019
Suitable for ages: 5-8
Themes/Topics: hijab fashion, modern Muslim women,
Brief Synopsis: UNDER MY HIJAB is w
Why I like this book: Hena Khan’s story is for anyone curious about modern Muslim women who choose to wear a hijab.
Most often women cover their hair, ears, and neck but to show just how individual that choice is, the cool artist aunt covers her hair and ears pinned with a handmade jewel. Illustrator
At the end of the book, the author shares the cultural and religious significance of wearing the headcover.
I read the ARC for this review. UNDER MY HIJAB would be a great addition to the home, school, and library.
Resources:
- Resources: For more about Islam for kids, see the World Religions website.
- See examples of modern hijabs at this London fashion show.
- Watch this tutorial on youtube by a young girl on how to style different headscarves.
- Read this interview on the Lee & Low Book blog with author Hena Khan.
To read lots more Perfect Picture Book Friday reviews visit author Susanna Hill’s blog.
Happy reading!
What an interesting and important book, thanks for the introduction. Looking forward to reading it.
I really like Hena Kahn’s book, as it shows the colorful ways girls
and women wear a hijab in such an uplifting way. Enjoyed the fun video! Kids will resonate with this book. Am a fan of Kahn’s MG book “Amina’s Voice.”
I have seen that video! It’s really fun. All our system’s copies are out on loan, so I’ll have to wait until one comes back. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and these wonderful activities.
Just wanted to let you know that all 56 copies of this book are in use at the San Francisco Public Library. I now have it on hold. It’s awesome to see how popular it is!
Yes, Kudos to Lee & Low for being on the vanguard of diverse books. This sounds like an interesting way for kids (and adults) to learn about a culture that is so stigmatized. And a great way to realize that there is much individuality within a culture.
Lee & Low have been such amazing pioneers in diversity in children’s books, both fiction and non-fiction. I think many adults are curious about this topic and books like this humanize and demystify (and often correct) people’s perceptions.