I AM: A-Z of Positive Affirmations for Muslim Kids by Barakah Kemi Hassan illustrated by Mariam Poppins

This alphabet framed book combines the English alphabet with correlating affirmations, but then also ties the sentiment in with one of Allah’s swt 99 names.  The names do not correlate with the alphabet, but ground the book by building on that connection to Allah swt and the peace and reassurance of knowing He is there.  The faceless illustrations are colorful and warm, blending wonderfully with the text, as does the font and style of the large soft cover picture book.  After the alphabet there are tips on how to use the book along with the 99 names in Arabic, English, and the meaning in English. The book was nominated for the Muslim Bookstagram Awards 2024 and had it not been, I don’t know that I would have spent time with it.  I can see this book working really well in a classroom setting, in addition to in a home. I’ve seen my own children’s teachers use affirmations, and to have this Islamic centered, alphabet organized one, really is a great tool for building our little Muslims up and strengthening their awareness of Allah swt in all we do.