The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family

Reviews

Great way of showing the challenges faced by young British Muslim girls. This book would be great discussion point in a book club, as it can help us look at being more accepting towards different faiths and cultures.

asha247

This is such a beautiful story about self-love, strength and embracing who you are. I found myself smiling throughout the story, and I especially loved the beautiful and serene imagery of the ocean, sky and viewing a hijab like a tiara that princesses wear. This strongly contrasts with the hurtful comments made by the bullies, including when they call the hijab a “tablecloth”. I particularly loved the message that if you understand and embrace who you are, others may one day understand too. I think this book could be especially empowering for young Muslim girls, particularly those who are preparing to wear the hijab, while also teaching non-Muslim children the importance of kindness, respect and acceptance. I would recommend it to young readers in Early Years and KS1. There are no significant content warnings, although the bullying could provide an opportunity for discussion with children.

farhanaahmed

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it has an important message which is about being proud of who you are. This book is a lovely story which would help children learn about kindness, diversity, being confident and respectful.

adilaj2204

I enjoyed the poetic and heartfelt narration, told through the eyes of Faizah, captures the big emotions and admiration a little sister feels for her older sibling’s momentous day. The sibling bond between Faizah and Asiya is tender and empowering, grounded by their mother’s wise words that guide them through hurtful moments. I felt a sense of pride and resilience—both in the characters and in cultural identity itself. I would recommend this to 4-8 year olds.

georgielockwood

Beautifully written and illustrated story. Wish I'd had this in my class for a child last year. Lovevthe connection between the sisters and the mums comments raise an awareness of how cruel some people can be. The fact its a true story adds to the importance.

Mills29

A beautiful story about the strength brought by having pride in your beliefs and the tenacity of the bond between siblings. The illustrations complement the poetic style of the writing, and there's the valuable addition at the end of the story of the authors' and illustrator's own experiences of wearing hijab. A text that will open up important conversations about different faiths and traditions.

SianHaines

I choose this book as I know that some girls find it difficult wearing the Hijab to school, this story really helps with making it something that just happens. Hope it will help girls feel more able to wear it and not have to be asked why. Will be in my reading corner.

HHorner

I loved this book! I don't often read picture books but the illustrations grabbed me when I saw this on the shelf. It is a simple book about resisting bullies and being proud of your beliefs. I can't wait to share this with others. Beautiful message and beautiful pictures.

LauraBritchford

One of the most beautiful books I have read. Written in the words of a small child on her first day of school she proudly and eloquently celebrates Hijab culture in the face of hurtful ignorance. A total masterpiece!

C Ward

A well written thought provoking book that allows the reader to see things from another perspective. The way the story weaves history, culture and religion together without it being negative in any way is a thing of joy. Perfect for ks1 and ks2

MrsCurrie

The Proudest Blue is a beautiful picture book that follows the story of sisters Asiya and Faizah. Faizah is the younger sister and it’s her first day at school. For her older sister, Faizah, it’s her first day wearing the hijab at school. The book explores different themes, including being proud of wearing a hijab, how beautiful it is, the perception of others, a sisterly/sibling bond, and imagination. Focusing on the two sisters, rather than just Faizah and her experience of wearing the hijab, really helps to make the story more realistic and meaningful. The only thing that struck me as out of alignment was Asiya’s constant counting of things. Aside from that, the pictures, words and characters complement each other well. This would be suitable for ages 6-8, or Years 2-3.

Mkinsey

I loved this for the opportunities it brings to open up discussion about why a hijab is worn as well as to celebrate differences we might see in school. Beautiful.

MrsR3146

This is a wonderful book about how a younger sister looks up to her older sister and wants to protect her and how she sees her hijab as a glorious, beautiful thing whereas others can misunderstand it. I teach many wonderful, clever, kind Muslim girls and it is wonderful to see them represented in this beautiful story. Many people just make assumptions about their wearing of the hijab and this addresses that in a lovely way with a beautiful message.

kpeugniez

A gorgeous little book.

Stephanie_H

Such a powerful message throughout the book. I loved the illustrations that went with the strong language. Introduces children to hijabs and a storybook that children can relate too if they are muslim. The theme of bullying is also ion the book, however the main character was not upset by this and moved forward.

Taylorc1993

A super book with lovely illustrations. It is beautifully written, showing what prejudice islamic girls face when wearing a hijab. I like how the focus of this book shows the importance of being yourself-and being proud of your heritage, family, religion and culture. I think this is a book that will promote discussion in any age group around hijabs.

Betsy1975@

A lovely, inspirational story. It's about religion and standing for what you believe and not letting people who don't 'understand' to stop you from doing what you believe. This picture book is a celebration of diversity and the power of resilience, but also the valued links of sisterhood.

Miss_Wilson:)

Read this book to Year 3 children during D.E.A.R. Time. It gave us the opportunity to talk about bullying, about knowing who You are and stand firm. Most importantly, do not simmer in someone elses hatred. We talked about the author who is an Olympian medalist, a great role model to inspire young hearts.

Cranberry

Such a beautiful book for sharing with children. The discussion about what other children were saying to her sister prompted some interesting responses and enabled some misconceptions to be addressed. The link to the real life people at the back shocked the children and enabled them to realise that the prejudice within the story does happen

Broomansally