There are some picture books that do such a beautiful job of opening up conversations about the world around us and A Very Happy Ramadan by A.M. Dassu is one of those books. It is thoughtful, informative and wonderfully accessible - making it an excellent introduction to Ramadan and fasting for young children of any belief.
This book gently explains what Ramadan is, why it is celebrated and what it might look and feel like for children who observe it. Importantly, it does this in a way that feels inclusive and clear, without overwhelming the reader. As a teacher, I really value books like this - ones that help children understand practices that may be different from their own, while also allowing those who celebrate Ramadan to feel seen and represented.
Here is the synopsis for the book:
Ramadan has started and Rayhan is trying his hardest to fast, just like everyone else. But all the food everyone is preparing for iftar smells so good! He feels like the only person who can't fast for the whole day.
Follow a family as they prepare for and experience the holy month of Ramadan - from fasting during the day to coming together in the evening to eat, pray and reflect. With a focus on kindness, gratitude and togetherness, this book offers young readers a meaningful insight into this important time.
One of the strengths of this book is how clearly and sensitively fasting is explained. For young children, fasting can be a tricky concept to understand, but A Very Happy Ramadan introduces it in a way that is age-appropriate and reassuring. It helps children understand why people fast during Ramadan and what it represents to those of the Islamic faith.
The illustrations by Abeeha Tariq are absolutely beautiful and deserve special praise. The colours are rich, warm and inviting, perfectly reflecting the joy and togetherness associated with Ramadan. Each page feels full of life and celebration and there is so much for children to notice and talk about. From facial expressions to food, decorations and family interactions, the artwork adds real depth to the story and will undoubtedly draw young readers in.
Another standout feature of this book is the non-fiction double-page spread at the back. This section provides clear, child-friendly information about Ramadan, fasting and Eid, making it a fantastic addition for classroom use. It supports learning beyond the story and gives adults a helpful reference point for answering questions children may have. I love when picture books include something like this as it turns a lovely story into a really informative teaching tool.
A Very Happy Ramadan is a warm, informative and beautifully illustrated picture book that would be a valuable addition to any classroom or home library. It supports understanding, celebrates diversity and opens the door to meaningful conversations in a way that feels natural and engaging for young readers.
I would highly recommend this book for teachers looking to introduce Ramadan in an age-appropriate way, and for families wanting to share and celebrate this special time with children.
I would also recommend checking out Dassu's other books; The Best Diwali Ever is a personal favourite.
Thank you again to Scholastic for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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