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Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes
Toddler book of shapes and Islamic traditions: From a crescent moon to a square garden to an octagonal fountain, this breathtaking picture book celebrates the shapes-and traditions-of the Muslim world.
Toddler book by author Hena Khan: Sure to inspire questions and observations about world religions and cultures, Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets is equally at home in a classroom reading circle and on a parent's lap being read to a child.
Toddler book by author Hena Khan: Sure to inspire questions and observations about world religions and cultures, Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets is equally at home in a classroom reading circle and on a parent's lap being read to a child.
30 pages, Hardcover
First published April 10, 2018
4 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Hena Khan
51 books524 followersHena Khan writes books in a multitude of formats, including picture books, middle grade fiction, pick-your-path adventures, and graphic novels. Her stories are often centered around community, friendship, and family, and draw from her own experiences and culture. Hena’s novels include AMINA'S VOICE, MORE TO THE STORY, and DRAWING DEENA. She is the author of the Zayd Saleem Chasing the Dream, Zara’s Rules, and Super You! series. Hena’s picture books include GOLDEN DOMES AND SILVER LANTERNS, UNDER MY HIJAB, and IT'S RAMADAN, CURIOUS GEORGE, among others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
March 17, 2018
Beautiful, beautiful book.
April 23, 2021
Pakistani-American author Hena Khan and expatriate Iranian illustrator Mehrdokht Amini, who previously collaborated on
Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors
, team up once again in this lovely picture-book examination of shapes and Muslim customs. The rhyming text describes the shapes of various objects and places central to the practice of Islam - the rectangle of the mosque's door, the hexagon of a tile painted with an ayah (a verse of the Quran) - while the artwork depicts Muslims from a wide variety of countries and backgrounds...
Like its predecessor, I found Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes to be an immensely appealing book, one which pairs a readable, engaging text with gorgeous artwork. The visual feast begins on the decorative endpapers, and continues throughout, as Amini uses deep colors, beautiful shapes and designs, and elegantly stylized figures to create one lovely scene after another. A glossary at the rear explains some of the words used in the main narrative - iftar, daff, mihrab, etc. - while the author's note gives more information. My only note of caution would be with regard to the author's blanket statement about the depiction of humans and animals in Islamic tradition, and how this is discouraged, because of strict interpretations of the prohibition on idol worship. While this is certainly true today, in many Islamic countries and cultures, and has also been true in some countries and cultures of the past, leading to the use of geometric forms in many Islamic arts, it is not now, nor has it ever been universally true, and there is considerable disagreement on the subject, amongst scholars. One need only think of works such as the Persian Shahnameh , which has been illustrated with both animal and human figures throughout the centuries, to see that this is true. While this generalization on Khan's part in no ways detracts from the virtues of the book, it is worth noting, so that young people don't take away the wrong impression from the author's note. Leaving that one quibble aside, this is one I would recommend to picture-book readers seeking titles with Muslim content, or featuring shapes.
Like its predecessor, I found Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes to be an immensely appealing book, one which pairs a readable, engaging text with gorgeous artwork. The visual feast begins on the decorative endpapers, and continues throughout, as Amini uses deep colors, beautiful shapes and designs, and elegantly stylized figures to create one lovely scene after another. A glossary at the rear explains some of the words used in the main narrative - iftar, daff, mihrab, etc. - while the author's note gives more information. My only note of caution would be with regard to the author's blanket statement about the depiction of humans and animals in Islamic tradition, and how this is discouraged, because of strict interpretations of the prohibition on idol worship. While this is certainly true today, in many Islamic countries and cultures, and has also been true in some countries and cultures of the past, leading to the use of geometric forms in many Islamic arts, it is not now, nor has it ever been universally true, and there is considerable disagreement on the subject, amongst scholars. One need only think of works such as the Persian Shahnameh , which has been illustrated with both animal and human figures throughout the centuries, to see that this is true. While this generalization on Khan's part in no ways detracts from the virtues of the book, it is worth noting, so that young people don't take away the wrong impression from the author's note. Leaving that one quibble aside, this is one I would recommend to picture-book readers seeking titles with Muslim content, or featuring shapes.
July 8, 2018
This is a beautiful little book that I happened to see at the library. At first, I thought it might be aimed at toddlers (considering that it's a "book of shapes"), but it would probably be a little better suited to children who are a bit older.
The illustrations are really gorgeous, incorporating a diverse cast of Muslim characters from all over the world, along with shapes and patterns and arabesques that give the book a unique flavour. If I had one complaint, it was that I didn't realize there was a glossary at the back, and I was confused throughout much of my first reading because there were a lot of words I didn't understand. Because of that, I thought that the book might only be suitable for Muslim children whose parents could explain these words. But after I found the glossary, I went back and read the book again, and it all made sense.
Overall, this is a great little picture book for teaching children about the art and architecture of Islam. I'd definitely recommend this one!
Quotable moment:
The illustrations are really gorgeous, incorporating a diverse cast of Muslim characters from all over the world, along with shapes and patterns and arabesques that give the book a unique flavour. If I had one complaint, it was that I didn't realize there was a glossary at the back, and I was confused throughout much of my first reading because there were a lot of words I didn't understand. Because of that, I thought that the book might only be suitable for Muslim children whose parents could explain these words. But after I found the glossary, I went back and read the book again, and it all made sense.
Overall, this is a great little picture book for teaching children about the art and architecture of Islam. I'd definitely recommend this one!
Quotable moment:
Oval is the table
where we break our fast.
When the sun sets,
it's iftar time at last.
November 27, 2018
Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets is a beautiful book that explores both shapes and Muslim culture. The illustrations are striking.
November 8, 2018
This book is just beautiful, and the kids had fun pointing out the shapes within the illustrations. It has a nice variety of shapes beyond the basic circle and square.
May 20, 2023
found this in the dymocks reduced price section and i love the way it depicts islamic art (as idols are not allowed) in a way that represents and celebrates islam. plus it reminds me of the history of muslims that rlly contributed to maths and science. def worth the $4.95 i spent.
July 29, 2018
This is a very nice concept book, superficially, of various shapes, but really a little introduction to Muslim culture and religious concepts. Probably more of a 3.5 than a 3 star title. However, it doesn't really show the shapes themselves, just the shape of a item being explained. For example, the Crescent is show by a crescent moon. But it doesn't really show the crescent as only a shape. It is a bit confusing if this is supposed to be a beginning book of shapes, which it really isn't. The illustrations are extremely nice. However, they were ruined for me by a note from the artist at the end. Each spread is from a different Muslim country and culture but none of the spreads are labeled with which country, nor is there a list at the back of the book. Why even mention that they represent different countries if there is no information about which picture belongs to which country? This could have been so much more educational, instead of really just offering bits and snippets of information. Recommended, since we so badly need more information about the Muslim culture and religion, but only until a better quality title comes along.
April 3, 2018
I was first introduced to Hena Khan's work with her picture book GOLDEN DOMES AND SILVER LANTERNS: A MUSLIM BOOK OF COLORS, and then fell in love with her middle grade title AMINA'S VOICE as well. And now I have another picture book title of hers to swoon over as well! CRESCENT MOONS AND POINTED MINARETS is just as fabulous as GOLDEN DOMES is, and tells stories of the shapes found throughout the Muslim world, while simultaneously teaching lessons of the Muslim culture.
The illustrations by Mehrdokht Amini depict scenes from various countries around the world and are playful and vibrant, ensuring this book will be enjoyed by even the youngest of readers/listeners. Included in the back matter are a thorough glossary and an Author's Note explaining the importance of shapes and geometry in Islamic art and architecture.
Required purchase for all library picture book collections.
Thanks to Chronicle Books for this review copy! I am passing it along to @kidlitexchange for more reviews.
The illustrations by Mehrdokht Amini depict scenes from various countries around the world and are playful and vibrant, ensuring this book will be enjoyed by even the youngest of readers/listeners. Included in the back matter are a thorough glossary and an Author's Note explaining the importance of shapes and geometry in Islamic art and architecture.
Required purchase for all library picture book collections.
Thanks to Chronicle Books for this review copy! I am passing it along to @kidlitexchange for more reviews.
September 27, 2018
This book displays a beautiful presentation of shapes with readers. Every page describes a tradition, structure, or landmark significant to the Muslim religion. This book has been selected as A Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year, A Parent’s Choice Recommended seal, and an ALA Notable Children’s Book nominee.
The illustrations in this book are in ways simple, yet very engaging. It illustrates Muslim families from different parts of the world. Teachers could use this book to review & reinforce math concepts, such as geometry, as well as, making real world connections. This book not only depicts parts of the Muslim culture, but it demonstrates the global diversity within this religion, which is not very commonly found.
The illustrations in this book are in ways simple, yet very engaging. It illustrates Muslim families from different parts of the world. Teachers could use this book to review & reinforce math concepts, such as geometry, as well as, making real world connections. This book not only depicts parts of the Muslim culture, but it demonstrates the global diversity within this religion, which is not very commonly found.
March 22, 2018
I love Khan's idea of creating a shape book incorporating examples of Islamic architecture, culture and art! Mehrdokht Amini's illustrations are absolutely gorgeous with deep jewel tones that practically glow. The book design from the cover, end pages and vivid illustrations is simply splendid.
A glossary and an Author's Note adds helpful information.
I only have one quibble and that is more of a request. In the Author's Note, Khan says that each spread depicts a different country from around the world. I would love to have each country identified either on the page or in back matter. It doesn't harm the book not to have it but it would have enhanced it.
A glossary and an Author's Note adds helpful information.
I only have one quibble and that is more of a request. In the Author's Note, Khan says that each spread depicts a different country from around the world. I would love to have each country identified either on the page or in back matter. It doesn't harm the book not to have it but it would have enhanced it.
April 20, 2018
What a pretty book this is. The illustrations are a joy to look at. It's a cultural education for children (and adults!) who may be unfamiliar with the Islamic world. I think it's interesting that our library seems to be getting in more cultural picture books such as this, perhaps in the hopes that our town will be less homogenous in the future.
September 28, 2019
Beautiful.
February 15, 2018
Just gorgeous
July 9, 2018
Much needed book. Simple introduction to Islam, by a young girl.
September 12, 2018
Such a lovely expression of faith though shapes, the illustrations are richly colored and engaging.
September 24, 2018
A rhyming book about shapes found in Islamic art and architecture. The illustrations are gorgeous.
December 13, 2018
Beautifully illustrated with an educational and poetic text that emphasizes on Middle Eastern words and shapes found in their structures.
February 17, 2020
While this book is found in the fiction section of the library, I think it can be classified as an informational text.
Hena Khan uses familiar shapes like ovals, circles, and triangles to introduce young children (K-1) to the rich and unfamiliar traditions of the Muslim world. A cone becomes a minaret for the call to prayer, an octagon becomes a fountain for wudu, and a hexagon becomes a tile that displays an ayah. Mehrdokht Amini's illustrations are full of color and capture the the art, architecture, and culture of different Muslim countries from around the world.
In my classroom, I would use this book either during a shape unit or a similarities and differences unit (or both!). It can be used as a read aloud to review geometric shapes. I'd have children point to the shapes they see on the page - some are obvious, while others aren't. As an extension, students could write their own version of this book to connect shapes to significant finds in their own world. In a similarities/differences unit, students could compare/contrast their lives and traditions with those in the book, as well as compare and contrast different countries/cultures they see within the book.
I love the colors and illustrations in this book. It's also a wow book for me because I'm intrigued by the Muslim world. I visited a Muslim country a few years ago and have enjoyed learning about the deeply rooted traditions that Muslims hold dear to their hearts.
Hena Khan uses familiar shapes like ovals, circles, and triangles to introduce young children (K-1) to the rich and unfamiliar traditions of the Muslim world. A cone becomes a minaret for the call to prayer, an octagon becomes a fountain for wudu, and a hexagon becomes a tile that displays an ayah. Mehrdokht Amini's illustrations are full of color and capture the the art, architecture, and culture of different Muslim countries from around the world.
In my classroom, I would use this book either during a shape unit or a similarities and differences unit (or both!). It can be used as a read aloud to review geometric shapes. I'd have children point to the shapes they see on the page - some are obvious, while others aren't. As an extension, students could write their own version of this book to connect shapes to significant finds in their own world. In a similarities/differences unit, students could compare/contrast their lives and traditions with those in the book, as well as compare and contrast different countries/cultures they see within the book.
I love the colors and illustrations in this book. It's also a wow book for me because I'm intrigued by the Muslim world. I visited a Muslim country a few years ago and have enjoyed learning about the deeply rooted traditions that Muslims hold dear to their hearts.
May 21, 2022
I adored the details in this book and the depiction of different countries around the world where Islam is practiced. Though I read that it is rather untraditional to depict people in Islam, I think this gives children potential characters to identify with. The rhyming text provides a lovely insight into the connection of faith and architecture, art, and shapes ("Crescent is the moon, brilliant in the sky. / It whispers salaam as the day passes by."). For anyone who is unfamiliar with the terms, there's a glossary in the back, as well as an author's note explaining the aim of the book and the importance of architecture and geometry for Islam. I can definitely imagine using this book in primary schools!
September 12, 2020
Hana khan and mehrdokht amini did an amazing job on educating the readers about Muslim culture each page brings alive what the religion of Islam is about. It’s shows how loving and excepting islam is. The illustrations Show people of many shapes and colors coming together in the most holiest of places. The illustrations are full of beautiful patterns and show many different architects for example, they show the Ka’ba In full detail it feels like I’m actually seeing it in person. This book shows so many traditions of the Islamic faith like Ramadan. It also educates people about a lot of The Islamic tradition! While incorporating traditional foods and traditional clothing. I believe people who have little knowledge of islam should read this book it’s beautiful and very educational and makes me proud to be a Muslim.
May 18, 2021
Senang deh nemu buku-buku Hena Khan di Scribd. Saya punya (dan baru baca) satu bukunya Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors yang mengenalkan warna pada anak melalui dunia Islam. Mulai dari kubah masjid, sajadah, hijab, dll.
Nah, kalau buku ini mengenalkan bentuk dan geometri . Disertai penjelasan di akhir buku mengenai geometri dalam Islam. Ilustrasinya keren!
Nah, kalau buku ini mengenalkan bentuk dan geometri . Disertai penjelasan di akhir buku mengenai geometri dalam Islam. Ilustrasinya keren!
November 18, 2021
Another excellent children's book--this one for toddlers learning their shapes. Gorgeous illustrations by Mehrdokht Amini that will arrest any reader's attention. All kids can learn from this book--it teaches shapes and Muslim traditions, and includes a glossary and author's note about the importance of shapes in Islamic art and architecture. Interesting for adult readers, too.
February 7, 2019
Age: Toddler+
Concept: Shapes
Intricate illustrations highlight different shapes throughout the Islamic world. In addition to the shape identification, Islamic vocabulary is sprinkled throughout. Best for those that identify as Muslim but still great for exposure to the Islamic faith.
Concept: Shapes
Intricate illustrations highlight different shapes throughout the Islamic world. In addition to the shape identification, Islamic vocabulary is sprinkled throughout. Best for those that identify as Muslim but still great for exposure to the Islamic faith.
May 29, 2021
Another beautiful, accessible informational introduction to Islam for young children.
As a teacher in a public school, I find I walk a very fine line when it comes to talking about religion. While a text like this is certainly informational, not theological, I know there are some parents (or other teachers) who won't see it that way.
The saying 'knowledge is power' is true. If we give our kids knowledge about the world, they will ahve the power to change it.
As a teacher in a public school, I find I walk a very fine line when it comes to talking about religion. While a text like this is certainly informational, not theological, I know there are some parents (or other teachers) who won't see it that way.
The saying 'knowledge is power' is true. If we give our kids knowledge about the world, they will ahve the power to change it.
June 3, 2021
A beautifully illustrated book for younger readers that explains the significance of various shapes in Islamic culture. I like how the illustrator tried to show the variety of different Muslims from around the world.
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January 13, 2020Expand your shape and Arabic vocabulary, while learning about Muslim faith, with this beautifully drawn rhyming picture book.
July 31, 2020
So I learned about shape and geometric in this children book! Me likey 💎
January 29, 2019
A great book to introduce children to the basics of Islam. I feel like there aren't enough books out there for Muslim children that are just for general knowledge, no angles or agendas.
Will definitely be recommending this one.
Will definitely be recommending this one.
October 30, 2019
I came across this book at the public library as a recommended, newly published read. The story is not very engaging, but it is educational and beautifully illustrated. The illustrations are a combination of media, seeming to include paint and collage. There is not a clear plot, but each page includes a shape related to muslim culture and religious practice. For example, "Cube is the Ka'aba, a most sacred site, where Muslims worship each day and night." The back of the book has a glossary of the Islamic terms, for example, "Ka'aba (KAH-bah): a holy temple in the city of Mecca, the word Ka'aba means "cube" in Arabic. All Muslims face in the direction of the Ka'aba while praying and are required to visit it once in their lifetimes, if they are able, to complete a pilgrimage known as hajj." The illustrations helpfully add visual explanation for the new, unfamiliar Islamic terms. I think this would be a good book for a read aloud so that you can discuss the new images, terms, and concepts together. This book would be great in the classroom for Kindergarten and 1st graders who are learning shapes or for older children to learn about the Islamic art and architecture and the Muslim religion. I might pick out a different book about Islamic culture with a plot over this one, but this is still a good book and I recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews