Maymoona’s Moon by Razeena Omar Gutta. Illus. by Zayneb Haleem

Eid, the Muslim celebration which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, has a special significance for Maymoona. She has always dreamed of being an astronaut, and for her the most exciting part of Eid is seeing the first sliver of the moon revealed, announcing for all the end of Ramadan. She has collected her compasses, has checked her cosmic goggles, and found the best vantage point from which to view the exposure of the smallest part of the moon.

She has decided to roost at the top of the garden’s tallest tree, and there, spurred on by her family, waits for the moment to occur. They cheer her on as she climbs the tree, and now there is a hush as the last rays of the sun disappear. The family is eager to start their feast.

But some clouds pass across the sky and when they too disappear, the moon is exposed, a crescent sliver of light for all to see. Eid Mubarak!

Razeena Omar Gutta is a South Asian Muslim born in Zimbabwe and now living in Australia. She loves telling stories, particularly ones in which Muslim families appear, giving her the opportunity to share their way of life with others. She had few books as a child, and wishes to see kids surrounded by books, telling lively, happy stories. And this book certainly meets those criteria.

Zayneb Haleem is a self-taught digital illustrator based in the UK. Her vibrant illustrations suit the joyful celebrations in this book, revealing strong family connections and celebrations.  The images on each page reveal aspects of the family’s beliefs and younger readers will acknowledge these as they read the story.

Themes: Islam, Eid, Ramadan, Humour, Moon.

Fran Knight