From beautiful illustrations to the 99 Names of Allah, here are 6 Islamic books for toddlers and children to start them on their journey!
From beautiful illustrations to the 99 Names of Allah, here are 6 Islamic books for toddlers and children to start them on their journey!
One of the best ways to educate and spend quality time with your child is to read a diverse range of books. The majority of books available do not have a Muslim protagonist, so it’s important to show young Muslim children their religion and culture does exist – and that it should be celebrated. It’s also a good way to introduce the concepts of good manners and intentions.
Here is a short list of Islamic books that would be great for both young and old, Muslim and non-Muslim, to better understand Islam:
1. Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors by Hena Khan and illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini
Suitable for ages: 4–7 years
This is one of my favourite books to read with my child. It’s about a young Muslim girl exploring and celebrating colour and Islamic culture. Hena Khan is an author who has the ability to turn everyday items such as prayer mats and hijabs into something magical. The topic of Zakat is also introduced beautifully: ‘Yellow is the box we fill on Eid with gifts of zakat for those in need.’
It is complemented by Mehrdokht Amini’s illustrations, which are unique and bold. There are fantastical close-ups of characters and objects. Each page is literally a work of art. There’s also a very useful glossary, which phonetically describes how to pronounce all the keywords in the book.
Although the general suitable age range on most online stores for this is 4-7 years old, I would recommend that younger and older ages would enjoy this book too. In addition, if you visit the author’s page, there is a very useful educator guide with lots of tips and advice on how to explore the book further with children.
Overall, I would give this book a score of 10/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39rlCAx
2. My First Iqra by Orin Azizah
Suitable for ages: 2 years +
This is an interactive book for children to learn and practice the Arabic alphabet. You can encourage your child’s motor skills by using your finger to trace the alphabet or use the wipe and clean option to practice.
Unlike other Arabic alphabet books, this one is slightly more advanced as your child can also learn the various vowel sounds. Introducing Arabic letters at an early age will hopefully make it easier for your child to understand the Quran.
Overall, I would give this book a score of 8/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3poDK3r
3. I Say Mashallah – Good Little Deeds by Noor H Dee and illustrated by Iput
Suitable for ages 1+
I wanted to find a book that would explain Islamic expressions and how to use them in everyday speech. I particularly wanted to focus on how to use the word Masha’Allah. Children have the ability to look at things from a wonderful new perspective compared to adults so I felt it was important to help my child appreciate beauty. And this sweet little book did not disappoint.
The two young children Nabil and Noura go camping with their dad, and see lots of beautiful sights. When looking at beautiful things their dad tells them to say, ‘MASHALLAH!’
Overall, I would give this book a score of 8/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3qSljED
4. Allah Knows All About Me adapted by Yasmin Mussa
Suitable for ages: 2-5 years
This book was adapted from the book ‘God Knows All About Me’. It was the first Islamic book that I got for my child to learn the basics of the Islamic faith. This book uses charming rhyming text with the repeated phrase ‘Allah knows all about me.’
The language is simple, exploring feelings and emotions. One thing to note is that the characters in my copy of the book do not have facial expressions, but the new versions do. I personally prefer the version with illustrated faces to help convey the mood of a character to young children. It also appears friendlier and is therefore more engaging. Here’s an interesting blog post about the publisher’s decision to do this.
The book as a whole does a wonderful job of engaging children and reassures them Allah’s (swt) love is always with them.
Overall, I would give this book a score of 8/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39nYqD3
5. My First Book About Allah by Sara Khan and illustrated by Ali Lodge
Suitable for ages: 3 months to 5 years
This book is specifically aimed at toddlers and young children to help children understand Allah (swt.) It introduces the concepts of love and mercy and that Allah (swt) is kind and forgiving. There are also pages with the 99 names of Allah (swt), which is a useful visual aid to revise later on.
The age range recommended on many websites is from 3 months to 5 years but I personally feel it is more suited for children aged 2 years and above. At the end of the book, there is also a handy question and answer guide to help with your child’s curiosity about Allah (swt).
Overall, I would give this book a score of 7/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3pne1sd
6. Studying Hard (Akhlaaq Building for Kids Series) by Ali Gator
Suitable for ages: 3-8 years
This book introduces your child to good manners and characters. It is also the only book that I have read which begins with a page stating “Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim”.
The main characters are a young girl called Saaliha and her younger brother Ali. This book teaches children the importance of trying and revising what you have learnt. I particularly liked the message that you should ask your parents and teachers for help when studying rather than struggle on your own when you need guidance.
I personally feel the text is too advanced for a 3-year-old, but the illustrations are vivid and bright enough for younger children to enjoy.
Overall, I would give this book a score of 9/10.
Link to purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3pqiDh3
