The Most Exciting Eid

Under a thickly rendered new moon, young Safa, who reads as South Asian, cannot wait to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Mom draws henna patterns on their hands to prepare, and Dad appears with Eid decorations, events that see Safa too excited to sleep. At Eid prayers, she asks Allah for a doll, a set of colored pencils, and a bicycle—and opening gifts reveals that she’s received them all. But when Safa refuses to share her new cycle with cousin Alissa, her mother reminds her that Eid is about “sharing our joys and our food with those who might be in need.” Leaving Alissa behind, the two leave the party to distribute gifts and treats to neighbors, portrayed with various abilities and skin tones, until an end further hints at the import of sharing. Tariq’s cartoon illustrations, which feature expressive faces amid bright-hued cultural details, accompany this straightforward holiday tale by Talkhani. A glossary concludes. Ages 4–6. (Feb.)