RAMADAN AND ID-UL-FITR

Filled with color photos of Muslims all over the world fasting during Ramadan and then celebrating the fast’s end during Id-ul-Fitr, this entry in a British series has been minimally updated since its initial publication in 1997.

The facts are generally correct in this mundane presentation, but some explanations are glossed over. Nowhere is it specifically said that Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic year, when the Prophet Muhammed received his first messages from the Angel Jibril (Gabriel), although the vision is described. There is no mention of Lailat-ul-Qadr, the Night of Power, an important observance, believed to be one of the last 10 nights of Ramadan, when Jibril appeared. A chart showing Ramadan dates for several years would be helpful to demonstrate the difference between the solar calendar and the lunar calendar followed by Muslims. Children would be interested in the Id fairs and carnival rides, and it's a pity there is so little coverage—although two children’s paintings are attractive. The recipe for an Id pudding is useful, but where does the dish originate? The transliteration of the calligraphy for the Id card activity (also used on page borders) should appear in the text, along with its translation.

Books on Islamic topics are sorely needed, but this title, which lacks even a resource list, just grazes the surface.