7 New, Must-Read Islamic Children's Books

Before social media took over our leisure time, many of us spent many enjoyable hours turning the pages of one book after another, discovering never-ending paths to imaginary worlds. While getting lost in these worlds, we were also learning language and expanding our creativity. Today, kids who are glued to their phones rarely feel the same love for reading. And many of us parents find ourselves fighting this brain-drain by unplugging our kids from devices and reconnecting them to the beauty of physical stories on the written page.

And what better way to reconnect our kids to stories than through Islamic children's books? That's because Islamic kids' books offer something unique to children's literature: Muslim representation in the world of entertainment.

Islamic children's books are a vital tool for tarbiyah in today's world. Parents everywhere are trying to build reading habits at a young age to limit screen-time. But not all stories written for kids feel relatable for Muslim children. At Ruqaya's Bookshelf, we continue to release new Islamic kids' books, so your child always has new stories to look forward to.

Here are our 7 new Islamic children's books released just this year and why they deserve a spot on your must-read list:

1. Bilal Finds His Voice by Majda Rashid

This summer, teach your children self-confidence with Bilal Finds His Voice by Majda Rashid. Ideal for children above four years, this Islamic kids’ book will help them embrace who they are and overcome the self-doubt that many Muslim children experience. Bilal faces the same struggle in his own Muslim community. When he moves from Zanzibar to Canada, he is criticized for his different accent when giving the adhan.  

Add this Islamic children’s book to your bookshelf and let your little ones learn how to stand tall when the world questions or criticizes them for being different. Bilal's story will keep reminding them that their unique traits are not something to be embarrassed about; rather, they are gifts from Allah to be proud of and grateful for.

2. My Name is Not Too Long by Imane Iraqi

Sometimes, people unfamiliar with our culture or language may not understand the beauty of our names. For Muslim children in the West, having their name mispronounced at school or being bullied because of a different name or appearance is a familiar struggle. Nour El Houda in My Name Is Not Too Long faces this very challenge. This Islamic children's book follows her journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance, written in a way children can easily grasp.

Imane Iraqi has done an incredible job of capturing the world of a young Muslim girl in this Islamic kids' book. As Nour El Houda tries to shorten her name to fit in, she doesn't feel quite like herself. Being reminded of the meaning behind her name helps her understand its beauty and share it with those around her. This is a heartwarming Islamic story book that will help your children understand that their identity, including their name, is something they should always cherish.  

3. Nani’s Hajj Gifts by Marzeih Abbas

Nani’s Hajj Gifts by Marzeih Abbas is a must-read for your children because this Islamic children’s book makes the lessons of Hajj accessible for everyone, including kids at home. Honesty, accountability, forgiveness, and tawbah are not just for pilgrims. These values should be upheld by every believer and taught to every Muslim child.

This Islamic story book keeps children engaged as they wonder what Zahra will do after she accidentally breaks the special gift Nani brought home from Hajj for her brother. Will she hide and lie about it, or will she hold herself accountable? As you read together, you can even ask your children what they would do if they were in Zahra's position. The goal isn't just to finish the story; it's to help children reflect on its lesson and carry it with them for the rest of their lives.

4. The Tentmaker of Cairo by Rosalind Noor

Teach your children the timeless lessons of selflessness and trust in Allah with The Tentmaker of Cairo by Rosalind Noor. This beautiful Islamic children's book takes young readers through the bustling streets of Old Cairo alongside Abu Sayid, whose kindness and unwavering faith shine through every challenge. Abu Sayid is given the important task of making the new Sultan's coronation tent, but winter and illness slow him down.  

Watching him take on the challenge, children learn the importance of practising patience, having faith, and persevering in the face of hardship. This Islamic kids’ book gently teaches children the value of serving Allah's creation, even when you have little to give, while reminding them that Allah is the Best Provider and He always takes care of those who place their trust in Him.

5. Homeschool Biryani by Habiba Anwar

As parents, we want to send our children to the best schools and institutions because we want them to excel in life. But we tend to forget that life itself is one of the greatest teachers and that learning is not limited only to classrooms. One of our new Islamic kids’ books, Homeschool Biryani, beautifully captures this idea in a fun and engaging way.  

Khadija’s adventures right at home will help children and parents alike to discover the valuable lessons that can be found in everyday experiences and in the world around them. It’s a beautiful Islamic children’s book that entertains while gently reminding us that education is not just about grades and schools—it’s also about growth, character, and the lessons life teaches along the way.

6. Nanu’s Prayer Rug by Sunna Syed

It's natural for kids to think of worship as strict rituals rather than understanding the deeper meaning behind the sacred acts. And it is our duty as parents to inculcate a love for salah early on by gently teaching kids about its true purpose. We've got just the Islamic children's book you need for that.  

In Nanu's Prayer Rug, when a small mishap sends their usual prayer rug for washing, Nanu gently reminds his granddaughter that what matters most is not the prayer rug beneath her feet, but the sincerity and love for Allah that lies within her heart. This beautiful Islamic kids’ book helps young readers understand that the true value of prayer comes from the intention behind it. At the same time, it encourages families to cherish the precious moments they spend together in worship, creating memories that last far beyond anything materialistic.  

7. The Mariachi Muslim by Wendy Diaz

Help your children understand the beautiful yet complex concept of destiny with The Mariachi Muslim by Wendy Diaz. What begins as an unexpected stop for a mariachi singer turns into a life-changing journey when his curiosity leads him to the Qur'an and, ultimately, to Islam. This is one of those Islamic story books that encourages children to stay curious, explore the world with an open heart, and embrace new experiences.

The mariachi singer’s journey to Islam teaches young kids a beautiful lesson in hope. It shows them that sometimes, it takes a single moment to completely change the direction of a person's life. This Islamic kids’ book is also a great reminder for children to not judge what they don't understand, but to approach the unfamiliar with kindness, respect, and a willingness to learn and grow.

Islamic Children’s Books That Leave a Lasting Impact

These Islamic children’s books are more than just stories; they are lessons our children can carry with them for the rest of their lives. As parents, it is our responsibility to be mindful of the content our children consume—whether it's books, TV shows, or video games. Anything our children engage with should be age-appropriate and meaningful rather than simply providing a momentary dopamine boost.

Our seven new Islamic kids’ books explored above do just that. They teach valuable life lessons while helping children develop a strong character, a love for learning, and a meaningful connection with their faith. As Muslim parents, we're not just raising children; we're raising the next generation of the Muslim ummah. Let’s strive to make it a generation that, by Allah's permission, will grow up to be compassionate, honest, thoughtful, and firmly connected to their religion. For young minds in their early years, beginning with Islamic story books for kids in English, available at Ruqaya’s Bookshelf, is one of the most effective steps.

Frequently-Asked Questions

Q: What are the best Islamic children's books for kids?

A: Some of the best Islamic children's books focus on real-life lessons kids can relate to, like being honest, embracing their identity, and trusting Allah. Titles like Bilal Finds His Voice, My Name is Not Too Long, and Nani's Hajj Gifts are great picks because they teach these values through relatable, everyday stories rather than preachy lessons.

Q: Are there Islamic story books in English for kids?

A: Yes, there are plenty of Islamic story books written in English specifically for children, making them easy for English-speaking Muslim families to enjoy together. Books like Homeschool Biryani and The Mariachi Muslim are written in simple, engaging English that's perfect for young readers and read-aloud sessions.

Q: What age group are Islamic kids' books suitable for?

A: Most Islamic kids' books in our collection are designed for children above the age of four, though many can be enjoyed by kids up to 10 years old, depending on the story's complexity. For example, Bilal Finds His Voice is ideal for children above four, while stories with deeper themes like The Mariachi Muslim can be enjoyed even by older kids who can follow along with more nuanced lessons.

Q: How can Islamic children's books help teach values to kids?

A: Islamic children's books teach values by showing kids how faith guides the right response in relatable, everyday situations. It could be anything children usually face, like breaking something by accident or feeling embarrassed about their culture, identity, or name. This approach helps children absorb lessons like honesty, gratitude, and trust in Allah naturally, without needing lectures on good morals.

Q: Where can I buy Islamic books for kids online?

A: You can find a wide selection of Islamic books for kids online at Ruqaya's Bookshelf, including new releases and bundles across different age groups and themes. Whether you're looking for stories about identity, honesty, or trust in Allah, visit www.ruqayasbookshelf.com to find your child's next favourite book.