By M.O. Yuksel, illustrated by Hatem Aly. Harper. Ages 4-8. $17.99.
“In my mosque, we are a rainbow of colors and speak in different accents,” opens this joyful celebration of mosques around the world. Voices of children chime in with a few sentences per page while richly colored and detailed pictures show mosques of various styles, some domed and others with tall minarets. The children and adults, who have different skin and hair colors, wear a variety of clothes, often with gorgeous patterns and hues. Themes of family and friendship prevail, along with references to spirituality: “In my mosque, we end our prayers by greeting the angels on our shoulders who watch over us day and night.” The celebration concludes with the invitation, “You are welcome in my mosque.” At the end, those who want more information will find an author’s note, a short glossary, and an annotated list of historic mosques.
This story is part of a special episode of WGLT's Sound Ideas airing March 12, marking the one-year anniversary of COVID's arrival in McLean County. Find
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Last modified on Wed 17 Feb 2021 13.02 EST
The year may be off to a dismal start, but Januaryâs best books for children are filled with adventurous magic. For readers of nine-plus, BB Alstonâs
Amari and the Night Brothers(Egmont) is a Chosen One fantasy with a fabulous protagonist: a whip-smart black girl from the projects. Amari is convinced her brilliant brother Quinton isnât dead, but the police have given up investigating his disappearance. Stumbling across a mysterious briefcase and an invitation to try out for the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, Amari discovers the everyday worldâs occult underbelly â and her own powerful magical gift. A splendidly imaginative debut, ideal for fans of the Percy Jackson or Nevermoor series.