ALMOST SUNSET

A Yemeni American boy struggles to find balance during Ramadan.

Hassan is preoccupied during the first days of Ramadan—he falls asleep in class and sidesteps questions about why he’s not eating lunch. Things get harder at soccer practices when he leaves early, much to the consternation of his coach. Other than one friend, he doesn’t tell anyone about his fasting. Meanwhile, Hassan’s nights are busy with prayers at the masjid; his grades slip, and he fears he’ll be replaced on the soccer team. Hassan and his cousins secretly break their fast, gorging on sweets, a lapse that weighs heavily on his conscience. His frustration wells up, leading Hassan to fall apart and act out at school. In response, his parents ground him, but the crisis also results in a conversation with his mom that allows Hassan to consider why he’s choosing to continue fasting. As Ramadan progresses, Hassan gains more control over his life—and when he opens up to others about fasting, there are some surprises in store for him. This uplifting story highlights the struggles of some fasting Muslim kids, but Algarmi focuses on Hassan’s perseverance and ability to own up to his mistakes and turn things around. Action-packed panels showing Hassan’s school days contrast with quieter moments with family. Many wordless sequences offer glimpses of the Yemeni community.

An inspiring look at the challenges and courage needed to be true to one’s faith.