Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is considered the holiest month for Muslims because it commemorates the first revelation of the Muslim scripture, the Quran, to the Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide, regardless of their location.
When is Ramadan?
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, and each month begins with the sighting of the first crescent moon after the new moon. Because the lunar month is shorter than the solar month, the Islamic year is about 11 days shorter than the year by the Gregorian calendar, the world’s standard calendar. As a result, Ramadan is about 11 days earlier each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar. Ramadan in 2025 will begin on the evening of Friday, February 28 and will end at sundown on Saturday, March 29.
The Time Book: explores the evolution of timekeeping and the development of different calendar systems, including lunar calendars, highlighting the cultural and scientific milestones that have shaped our understanding of time throughout history.
Our Moon : illustrates how the moon has shaped our planet and influenced our development throughout history and highlights how early civilizations utilized the phases of the Moon to count months and years, allowing them to plan ahead.
What is the Significance of Ramadan?
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and self-improvement. Muslims believe that the rewards for good deeds are multiplied during Ramadan. This motivates many to increase their acts of worship and charity during this month. Many Muslims read the entire Qur'an during Ramadan, as it was in this month that the Qur'an was first revealed. Fasting during Ramadan is believed to purify the soul, encourage self-discipline, increase empathy for those less fortunate, and bring Muslims closer to God. It's also seen as a way to practice self-control and gratitude. The month provides an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on their lives, break bad habits, and cultivate positive qualities like patience and compassion.
Hannah and the Ramadan Gift: the heartwarming story of a young girl named Hannah who learns about the significance of Ramadan and the joy of giving, as she prepares a special gift for a friend in need during this holy month.
All-American Muslim Girl: follows the journey of Allie Abraham, a teenage girl navigating her identity as a Muslim in America, as she grapples with cultural expectations, personal faith, and the challenges of being caught between two worlds.
Family Bonding and Community Spirit
Families often come together during Ramadan for pre-dawn and post-sunset meals, strengthening familial ties. Many Muslims gather to break their fast together and pray in congregation at mosques, fostering a sense of community. Many Muslim communities have special customs and foods associated with Ramadan, making it a culturally rich time.
Salaam, With Love: the heartfelt coming-of-age story of 17-year-old Dua, who navigates her identity and faith while spending Ramadan with her extended family in New York City, discovering the importance of community, music, and self-acceptance along the way.
The Ramadan Cookbook: a collection of flavorful and easy-to-make recipes designed for Ramadan, featuring dishes for Suhoor and Iftar as well as festive meals for Eid, all beautifully illustrated to inspire family-friendly cooking year-round.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr, “The Festival of Breaking the Fast," is a joyous celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. It begins when the new moon is sighted, signaling the start of the month of Shawwal. Eid al-Fitr is typically celebrated with special morning prayers, family gatherings, festive meals, new clothes, and acts of charity. It is a day of festivity and gratitude.
Looking for the Eid Moon: the charming story of a young girl who eagerly anticipates the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, exploring themes of family, tradition, and the joy of celebration in a culturally rich narrative.
Once Upon An Eid: a diverse collection of short stories that captures the spirit of Eid through the eyes of Muslim children, exploring themes of joy, community, and personal growth while celebrating the rich tapestry of cultural experiences within the Muslim world.
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