Free My Name Is Bilal Ebooks Online
A young boy wrestles with his Muslim identify in this picture book for children written by Dr. Asma Mobin-Uddin, with illustrations by Barbara Kiwak.When Bilal and his sister Ayesha move with their family, they have to attend a new school. They soon find out that they may be the only Muslim students there. When Bilal sees his sister bullied on their first day, he worries about being teased himself, and thinks it might be best if his classmates didn’t know that he is Muslim. Maybe if he tells kids his name is Bill, rather than Bilal, then they would leave him alone. Mr. Ali, one of Bilal's teachers and also Muslim, sees how Bilal is struggling. He gives Bilal a book about the first person to give the call to prayer during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. That person was another Bilal: Bilal Ibn Rabah. What Bilal learns from the book forms the compelling story of a young boy grappling with his identity.Booklist says: “A good starting place for discussions of cultural differences, prejudice, and respect for the beliefs of others.”
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press (August 1, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1590781759
ISBN-13: 978-1590781753
Product Dimensions: 0.5 x 9 x 10 inches
Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #398,911 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #255 in Books > Children's Books > Literature & Fiction > Religious Fiction > Other Religious Fiction #347 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Difficult Discussions > Prejudice & Racism #1153 in Books > Children's Books > Growing Up & Facts of Life > Friendship, Social Skills & School Life > Self-Esteem & Self-Respect
Age Range: 6 - 12 years
Grade Level: 3 - 7
Portrays a familiar school situation with depth and sensitivity. Other kids at Bilal's new school tear off his sister's head scarf and make anti-Muslim remarks. Bilal feels he needs to hide his Muslim identity, and we (the readers) understand why. We all understand what it's like to be singled-out and afraid, even if our specific situation is not the same as Bilal's. Some concerned adults help Bilal feel comfortable about embracing his identity as a Muslim, but Bilal finds a way to make peace with the bully all on his own. Bilal's solution has to do with teamwork and sportsmanship, and it gives us insight into Bilal's developing character. Spirituality is built into the story in a subtle and satisfying way. This multi-layered story will appeal people of many faiths. Bilal's story transcends categories of religion or nationality.
It was so nice to see a book that showed how difference can be overcome by simply standing up for yourself. I think every third grade classroom should have this book. It is also nice to see Muslims portrayed in a postive light for a change.
Bilal and his sister Ayesha are nervous about starting their new school, it seems as if they are the only Muslim students in attendance and they are receiving much negative attention, such as pointing, loud whispering, and outright bullying. Maybe going by a less Muslim name like Bill will help Bilal fit in? When he learns the importance of his name and its origins he finds the strength to stand up for himself and his sister. This is a perfect read aloud to share in every grade school to discuss acceptance and kindness toward all.
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