Zamzam for Everyone: Sharing Water at Hajj

Gr 1-3–A little girl narrates her first experience of Hajj, a time to “do good, share, and be thankful.” Mariam tells of her decision to share her Zamzam water, believed to be blessed in the Muslim tradition, with anyone who needs it on the five-day pilgrimage from Makkah to Mina to the plains of Arafah, Muzdalifah, and then back to Mina and Makkah. In doing so, she encounters Muslims from the world over and receives food, drink, and thanks from people of many different cultures. When she gives her last drops of Zamzam to their over-heated bus driver, he in turn gives her a whole new bottle of Zamzam, so that she has enough to take home to those who weren’t able to make the journey. Gutta captures a child’s excitement at being able to participate in the pilgrimage. The mingling of many cultures joining together for a practice they commonly revere is also effectively conveyed. Dawoud’s digital collages amplify the good will; her characters exude kindness while a judicious use of patterns on hijabs, flooring, and walls gives life to the bustling scenes. Helpful back matter explains further about Zamzam water, Hajj, and proper attire. Glossaries, pronunciation guides, and photos and descriptions of the foods fill out the appended information along with author and illustrator notes.