Copyright Date:
2024
Edition Date:
2024
Release Date:
05/07/24
Illustrator:
Bushry, Ani,
Pages:
1 volume (unpaged)
ISBN:
0-06-320618-8
ISBN 13:
978-0-06-320618-2
Dewey:
E
LCCN:
2023943302
Dimensions:
26 cm
Language:
English
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
A Muslim child encounters Islamophobia.Brown-skinned Salma notices that when a news reporter on TV uses the word Muslim, "her eyebrows go down and her mouth frowns." Gentle, caring Salma wishes that people understood that Islam is a peaceful religion-even the name Salma means peace. When Salma's best friend is absent one day, the child is mocked by a white-presenting classmate named Luke, though in front of their classmates and teachers, he pretends to be deeply opposed to bullying. Luke's taunt of "Muzzlim" and his assertion that he knows "all about Muzzlims from TV" prompt Salma to take a stand and reveal all to their teacher. Later, Luke attempts to brush his bullying under the rug, but Salma powerfully rebuffs him, holding him accountable for his actions. Their interaction comes full circle when Luke feels lonely at lunch one day when his best friend is absent, but Salma treats him with empathy and kindness. With soothing colors and rounded shapes, Bushry's cartoon images pair well with this gentle tale of self-advocacy. Endpapers and spreads include illustrated photos of Salma's family, showcasing everyday moments of joy. Backmatter includes an author's note, in which Faruqi discusses how this story is rooted in her response to Donald Trump's 2017 Muslim ban, an illustrator's note in which Bushry emphasizes that misinformation can lead to discrimination, and anti-bullying resources.An important and timely narrative of inclusivity and acceptance. (Picture book. 4-8)
Bibliography Index/Note:
Includes bibliographical references.
"With colorful, appealing cartoon illustrations and a text that reads aloud well, this touching story encourages kids not only to accept people from different cultures and religions but to stand up for themselves when they're being bullied." —ALA Booklist (starred review)
From award-winning author Reem Faruqi, of Amira's Picture Day, Lailah’s Lunchbox, Milloo's Mind, and Unsettled, comes an empowering picture book about a girl who stands up for her Muslim culture and identity and counters bullying with love, peace, and kindness.
My name is Salma, which means peace. Islam also means peace. I wish more people knew that.
Salma is Muslim, an identity she takes pride in. But not everyone understands Salma’s religion the way she does, including news reporters, and even a boy in her class, who bullies Salma for belonging to the culture and faith she loves. However, when things go too far, Salma says, “Enough is enough!” and finds the courage to defend herself while also spreading a message of peace.