Facts About Islam

Gr 3—6—This book describes who Muslims are, the beginning of Islam, beliefs and leaders, the Qur'an, Sunna, family life, worship, the Islamic calendar, Hajj, festivals, and how the religion spread. A time line covers Islam from the birth of Muhammad to 1980. A select glossary of terms is provided, yet while the book uses the Islamic term of respect "PBUH" after the names of Muhammad and other prophets, it doesn't explain what the term means: peace be upon him. The author includes details that many Muslims might not be familiar with, such as breaking fast with salt, milk, dates, and honey. Most Muslims break their fast with dates. Colorful photographs, maps, and illustrations appear on every chapter spread, and the language is easy to understand, making this a useful resource for children despite its generalizations and omissions.—Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Researcher in Children's Islamic Literature, University of Worcester, OH