Muslims are encouraged to visit the mosque at least once a week. It is a special place regarded as Allah’s house, and millions of Muslims come together to pray every day. In My Mosque, by M. O. Yuksel and Hatem Aly, is a children’s book that depicts the experience of visiting a mosque. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, the book offers young readers a glimpse into the beauty and warmth found in a mosque, highlighting the diverse traditions and practices of Muslims around the world.
M. O. Yuksel is an author of Uzbek heritage. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Fordham University and her Master’s Degree in International Affairs from Columbia University. Yuksel has worked in the education field for over twenty years. She is a full-time author, has published five books, and has received various awards for her work. The artist, Hatem Aly, is an Egyptian illustrator who has illustrated over forty children’s books including the Yasmin series and The Proudest Blue, a New York Times Bestseller. He received the Golden Kite Award for Picture Book Text and lives in Canada with his wife and son. M. O. Yuksel and Hatem Aly also made Ramadan Kareem, a children’s book that focuses on Islamic traditions during Ramadan. It is a lovely book, and Aly’s illustrations bring it to life.
Summary:
In My Mosque is a book about appreciating the Muslim community in the mosque. It mentions the recognizable feelings of stepping on the carpet and praying together. The book is written in a way that allows Muslim children and non-Muslims to understand and appreciate it.
M. O. Yuksel’s unique writing style is noticeable in this book, similar to that in Ramadan Kareem. The book flows almost like a poem, but without rhymes. It is simple, which makes it great for children to read and enjoy.
Hatem Aly’s illustrations are great. Like Ramadan Kareem's, they focus on details, and even characters in the background are doing their own thing. His work makes the book more immersive and memorable.
One thing I liked about this book was that it showed a few iconic mosques from different countries. I recognized a few of them, some of which I have visited myself. I noticed that a mosque located near my house was included, which was a pleasant surprise. Other mosques included were Masjid an Nabawi, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, the Great Mosque of Djenne, and many more. This book is a good way for children to learn more about these iconic mosques around the world, as they can all be appreciated for their beauty. Aly’s illustrations deserve all the credit, as he does an amazing job of depicting the phenomenal architecture and design of these mosques.
In My Mosque follows the same theme that Ramadan Kareem follows, and that is the idea that everyone is welcome. The book follows Muslims from all over the world, and takes place in mosques from different countries. This makes the book special for anyone reading it, as they can feel themselves and their culture being represented.
In My Mosque is a beautifully written and illustrated book that captures the essence of the mosque as a place of worship and community. M. O. Yuksel’s simple style of writing makes the book accessible to young readers, while Hatem Aly’s detailed and immersive illustrations bring the story to life. The inclusion of famous mosques from all around the world adds a feeling of discovery and wonder, allowing readers to appreciate the diversity and beauty of these sacred spaces.
This book is a wonderful resource for both Muslim children who want to see their experiences reflected in literature and non-Muslim readers who wish to learn more about Islam. In My Mosque successfully portrays the mosque as a welcoming space for all. I recommend In My Mosque to parents, educators, and children interested in learning about different cultures and traditions. It is a heartwarming and visually stunning book that deserves a spot on any bookshelf. I rate it an 8/10.
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