Ramadan, Islam’s holiest month, begins on May 5. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Muslim lunar calendar and all over the world Muslim families celebrate with daily fasting and prayer.

For families that observe the holiday and for those who want to learn more about it, here are three books to share with your little ones:

The Gift of Ramadan written by Rabiah York Lumbard; illustrated by Laura K. Horton
Sophia wants to fast for Ramadan this year. She tries to keep busy throughout the day so she won’t think about food. But when the smell of cookies is too much, she breaks her fast early. How can she be part of the festivities now?

Ramadan written by Hannah Eliot; illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh
Learn all about the traditions of Ramadan. In the ninth month of the year, when the first crescent moon rises in the sky, it’s time to celebrate Ramadan—a time to reflect on ourselves, to be thankful, and a time to help others.

Lailah's Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story written by Reem Faruqi; illustrations by Lea Lyon
Lailah is in a new school in a new country, thousands of miles from her old home, and missing her old friends. When Ramadan begins, she is excited that she is finally old enough to participate in the fasting but worried that her classmates won’t understand why she doesn’t join them in the lunchroom. 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.

Looking for more suggestions? Head to our booklist to find more books.

Visit your neighborhood library to find these titles and more!