Upside-Down Iftar

Gr 1-3–A glimpse into a family’s Ramadan celebration that is centered around the preparation of a beloved dish: makloubeh. Malak, a young girl with tan skin and brown hair, and her teta, or grandmother, bond in the kitchen while navigating new changes—namely, Teta’s need to refrain from fasting due to her medication. As Teta teaches Malak how to make makloubeh, each family member brings their own favorite ingredient to the mix, from eggplant to potatoes to carrots and cauliflower. What begins as a traditional family recipe becomes a reflection of love and compromise. Odeh’s (A Map for Falasteen) warm style of writing captures the essence of intergenerational relationships, cultural tradition, and the spirit of togetherness that defines Ramadan. The addition of a kid-friendly recipe at the end makes it a great choice for families who want to connect through food and storytelling. While the book does include a few phrases in Arabic without translation or glossary, context clues provide enough for most readers to grasp the emotional tone and meaning. These ­moments also offer natural opportunities for discussion or exploration. Digital illustrations, using many vibrant details when it is necessary and more subtle imagery where needed, also add depth. This illustration style enhances the cultural richness of the story, accurately depicting details such as clothing and decor.