K-Gr 3 A young boy shares the rituals, customs, and blessings of his extended Muslim family as he introduces the daily observances of Islamic faith. Starting with the number one, represented by the morning sun, the day begins with the call for prayer. From there, each page features the next chronological number and attaches a significant religious custom associated with it. Rather than focusing on abstract religious theory, the author intentionally features the tangible elements of Islam the family encounters. This results in relatable content that works well as the structure for a counting book. The colorful illustrations capture the architecture, ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles of traditional Islamic art. They also do a remarkable job of depicting the blending of the past to the present. For example, the ten pairs of shoes pictured on the family's carpet during salal (formal worship) range from ornately embroidered adult slippers to a pair of toddler's sneakers. The illustrations also address the diversity found in Muslin culture by portraying various races, clothing styles, and food choices. The book's back matter features a helpful glossary and author's note. VERDICT An introduction to the Islamic faith that serves its community and newcomers well; with its personal observations, rhyming text, and detailed illustrations, it would make a unique read-aloud and a significant addition to any library collection.Lynne Stover

A counting book takes readers on a tour of the Islamic faith."One is the morning sun" as a multigenerational Muslim family awakes to the first adhaan (call for prayer). "Two are hands for making dua" as they utter morning invocations. In this fashion, the book moves through the numbers one to 10 as the family members, including two children, carry out various religious practices and traditions. As Khan explains in a closing author's note, the book steers clear of abstract concepts (like five for the five pillars of Islam) and instead presents "concrete and illustratable terms" to help children "focus on things we can count in the world around us." Thus, readers see five cups of tea being served at a halaqa (religious study group) with family friends, 10 pairs of shoes that the characters have removed from their feet before salah (formal worship), and three bags of donations being prepared for sadaqa (almsgiving). Exquisite, colorful mixed-media illustrations depict a setting that could be Iran (Amini's ancestral homeland) and showcase the aesthetics of Islamic art, from textile patterns to architectural ornamentation. This concept book complements the creators' Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns (2012) and Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets (2018), about colors and shapes, respectively. Some readers may disagree with certain spelling choices, such as salah instead of sala or salat. A helpful glossary explains key terms and could be critical for non-Muslim readers. Muslims are portrayed diversely in terms of dress, physical appearance, and race.A creative, fun introduction to Islam. (Picture book. 3-7)