Community – The Islamic Library Association

The Proudest Blue

Khalisa — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:46:19 +0000

A powerful and affirming picture book that celebrates faith, family, and resilience. Told through the eyes of a young girl watching her older sister wear hijab to school for the first time, the story explores pride in identity alongside the challenges of misunderstanding and prejudice. With warmth and honesty, the book highlights the strength found in self-confidence, sisterhood, and community support. The Proudest Blue offers young readers a joyful and empowering story about embracing who you are and standing tall in the face of adversity.

A Map for Falasteen

Khalisa — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 18:00:03 +0000

A beautifully illustrated picture book that follows the journey of a Palestinian child seeking connection, belonging, and a sense of home. Through tender storytelling and vivid visuals, the book explores themes of identity, heritage, displacement, and hope. Odeh’s narrative invites young readers to reflect on the meaning of home and the resilience of communities living in exile. A Map for Falasteen is both a heartfelt story for children and a gentle introduction to the experiences of Palestinian families.

Mariam’s Dream

Khalisa — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 17:56:05 +0000

An inspiring true story about resilience, generosity, and the power of community. The book follows Mariam Al-Shaar, a Syrian refugee who transforms her love of cooking into a food truck that brings not only meals, but dignity and hope to those in need. Through accessible storytelling, Boukarim highlights Mariam’s journey of displacement, determination, and compassion, showing how one person’s dream can nourish an entire community. Mariam’s Dream is a celebration of courage, kindness, and the belief that food can be a bridge between people.

Bilal Cooks Daal

Khalisa — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:52:35 +0000

Six-year-old Bilal is excited to help his dad make his favorite dish—daal! The slow-cooked lentil stew from South Asia takes many ingredients and a lot of patience, and Bilal wants to introduce his friends (who’ve never tried it) to it. As the daal simmers, more children join in, and Bilal wonders: will his friends like it as much as he does? This charming picture book uses food as a bridge to celebrate community, patience, family traditions, and sharing.