In My Mosque, by M.O. Yuksel {Kids Book Review}

I feel like in 2021, we’ve come a long way in terms of diversity in the book world. I grew up reading Sweet Valley High, Nancy Drew….every book made up of predominantly white main characters. Since I started reviewing books a few years ago, I’ve been ecstatic every time I see a new book being published, that speaks to our minority groups. We’re seeing books featuring kids with kinky hair, brown skin, kids with disabilities, kids who feel different….and kids with different religions. In My Mosque is such a lovely book for kids of all races and religions….a simple, but fun way to teach our kids about diversity.

What is In My Mosque about?

No matter who you are or where you’re from, everyone is welcome here. From grandmothers reading lines of the Qur’an and the imam telling stories of living as one, to meeting new friends and learning to help others, mosques are centers for friendship, community, and love.

M. O. Yuksel’s beautiful text celebrates the joys and traditions found in every mosque around the world and is brought to life with stunning artwork by New York Times bestselling illustrator Hatem Aly (Yasmin series, The Proudest Blue, The Inquisitor’s Tale). The book also includes backmatter with an author’s note, a glossary, and more information about many historical and significant mosques around the world.

Review

Growing up, I had many Muslim friends, and even though I know what happens inside a Mosque…and even having been inside a Mosque myself, I still found this book informative. The illustrations are beautiful and so vibrant, and the writing is short and sweet. Any child would love turning the pages in this book and discovering what happens next.

I think this would be a lovely book for a teacher to use at school, to teach younger kids about Mosques and a bit about the Islamic religion. What’s also great in this book, is the annexure at the end that explains in depth some interesting information about Mosques, as well as a glossary of the main words used in the religion.

I found a lovely YouTube video, where the book is read aloud with some images and videos in between. This would be a lovely add on to your child reading the book and watching this short video too.

Thank you Jonathan Ball Publishers for sending this book over for us to review.