TWO NEW OFFERINGS CELEBRATE MUSLIM CULTURE

In light of some of the things going on in the world today, it’s nice that picture books can celebrate religious diversity and culture and make it a fun read for little ones. Here are a couple of books coming out soon:

Aug. 29: ‘Yo Soy Muslim: A Father’s Letter to His Daughter’

By Mark Gonzales; illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

Simon & Schuster/Salaam Reads, 32 pp., $17.99

Gonzales, a Latino poet who is also Muslim, pens a letter to his daughter to empower her to take pride in her identity and heritage. He extends the lesson to all Spanishspeaking Muslim youth growing up in the United States. Although this is Gonzales’ first book for children, his work includes three TEDx Talks and performances on HBO’s “Def Poetry Jam,” at Stanford University and at the United Nations. His elegant words are complemented by the soulful folk-art illustrations of Mehrdokht Amini. The deepset eyes of the illustrations draw you in. Though the title is in Spanish, the book is written in English.

Sept. 5: ‘Salam Alaikum: A Message of Peace’

By Harris J; illustrated by Ward Jenkins

Simon & Schuster/Salaam Reads, 32 pp., $17.99 Dubbed “the Muslim Justin Bieber” by NPR, the British-Muslim singer Harris J is spreading love, peace and happiness with his new children’s book, “Salam Alaikum,” which incorporates lyrics of his international YouTube hit of the same name. The video has garnered more than 58 million views. The book features heartwarming illustrations that show the power of paying it forward, calling readers to “(s)pread peace on the Earth. Cherish the love that is around us.” The 20-year-old singer landed a deal with the UK’s Awakening Records after winning the label’s social-media talent contest in 2013.