Under My Hijab

by Hena Khan

Illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel

This book gives an informative glimpse into the practice of Muslim women wearing a headscarf, also known as a hijab. The author enlightens the reader by highlighting successful female role models to a young girl in the story by listing various occupations and activities that will no doubt be familiar to readers of many ages. Throughout the story, the examples shared feature different interpretations of how and when they are worn, as well as the individuality that is allowed and celebrated by Muslim women of all ages. 

As an early elementary classroom teacher, this book clearly strikes me as a mentor text that would help empower female Muslim students, celebrate diverse cultural practices and demonstrate that all perspectives are meaningful and accepted. I would recommend this for all ages, however, the playful illustrations and simple text features, in my opinion, would best lend themselves to an elementary interest level.        

For further background, take a peek at this article that reveals Hena Kahn's targeted audiences and further inspirations for writing this, one of her many children's books.