Author & Illustrators
This fabulous and inspiring new non-fiction story is based on the life of Ulugh Beg. The author imagines the questions he asked that led him to build the great observatory in Samarkand, weaving them through a compact but vivid evocation of his childhood. The illustrations add to the atmosphere of open plains, wide skies, glorious sunsets and lush gardens.
The story honours his achievements in mathematics and astronomy, setting him in his historical place between the earlier scholars of Alexandria and the later European astronomers like Galileo. Although it stops short of documenting his downfall, it is explicit about the religious opposition he encountered (as so many scientists did). It also stresses his own deep faith and belief that learning was a sacred duty.
The author and illustrator have packed so many ideas and a lot of information into a short picture book and yet it remains coherent and easy to enjoy. I would definitely have wanted this in my classroom when I taught in Year 1 and it would be appropriate for up to early Key stage 2. A real gem – I loved this one!
Nylah the cat just wants to play, but everyone is too busy! As she goes from house to house, families are hanging decorations, making delicious food, wrapping gifts, trying on new clothes and decorating their hands with henna. Mischievous Nyla seems to get wrapped up in it all, but her ‘help’ is not welcome. ‘Poor Nyla!’
Eventually, after being shooed home, the curious cat falls asleep, only to be woken very early for a party! Nyla finally finds out what they are all preparing for when the community comes together for a big Eid celebration in the park, where everyone wants to play!
This has superb representation of different Muslim families and there is a real community feel to the story. With information from the author in the back matter too, this makes a perfect introduction to Eid for EYFS and KS1 settings.
review
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Any other comments
Any other comments