The Proudest Blue – A Story of Jijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali
With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It’s the start of a brand-new year and, best of all, it’s her older sister Asiya’s first day of hijab–a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Paired with Hatem Aly’s beautiful, whimsical art, Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K. Ali bring readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are.
Main Focus: Be strong in who God made you to be.
Questions:
– I wonder why a first-day hijab is special? What does Mama say it means?
– What special new things does Faizah get for her first day of school?
– What are some ways that Faizah describes Asiya’s blue hijab?
– I wonder why some kids are mean about Asiya’s hijab?
– What does Mama say to do with hurtful words?
– I wonder if Asiya appreciates Faizah’s picture of the two of them in blue hijabs?
– I wonder if you know someone or have seen someone wearing a hijab? What color was it?
– What makes you remember that you are strong?
Activity: Think of some ways that you can help others on their first days of school this year. Make a necklace, bracelet, or keychain using beads whose colors represent something special to you.