Adam and Anisah are back again in My Brother’s Shield, an inspiring story that depicts the superhero-esque challenges that big brother Adam overcomes when fasting during Ramadan.
With beautiful illustrations, My Brother’s Shield introduces young readers to Ramadan and fasting as seen through a young child’s eyes; and inspires within them the spirit of a Muslim superhero.
Context to the Story
“Fasting is a Shield.” [Ibn Majah]
In this story, Anisah describes the immense challenges that her brother Adam overcomes when fasting during Ramadan.
She observes the strength that he has to overcome his craving for biscuits, read the Qur’an whilst avoiding distractions, stay calm when there is a fight during a football match and avoid gossiping with friends in the Mosque.
All of this is aided by his Ramadan shield which seems to give him his superhero powers.
Ramadan is a joyous occasion for Adam and Anisah, who put up bunting, enjoy their visits to the Mosque and take part in a community meal at the end of the day.
My Brother’s Shield aims to demonstrate to children that fasting in Ramadan is about more than refraining from eating and drinking, it is a training ground where Muslims learn to overcome bad habits and develop good habits that will stay with them long after the end of the month.
Developing Character Strengths
God-consciousness: Being aware of Allah.
Discussion Time Questions
As your children explore the world of fasting with Adam and Anisah, encourage them to look deeper into the story by discussing the following questions:
• What does the shield save Adam from when he is fasting?
• What would the Ramadan shield save you from if you were fasting?
• What good deeds do Adam and Anisah do in the story?
• Why does the shield go away at the end of the story?
Further discussion questions can be found at the back of the book.
Learning through Practice
Challenges & Activity Ideas
Complete the following activities to bring My Brother’s Shield to life.
• Fast until lunchtime and see what good deeds you can do.
• Make a shield using carboard and paint and decorate it.
• Bake and decorate cookies to gift to neighbours.
• Make a list of bad habits that you want the Ramadan shield to save you from and create a reward chart based on this list.
Further activity suggestions can be found at the back of the book.
“A beautiful story layered with meaning and lessons. The final page had me holding back tears.” - Parent
Recommended Age: 3+