Lailah's Lunchbox

Synopsis

Lailah solves her problem with help from the school librarian and her teacher and in doing so learns that she can make new friends who respect her beliefs. This gentle, moving story from first-time author Reem Faruqi comes to life in Lea Lyon's vibrant illustrations. Lyon uses decorative arabesque borders on intermittent spreads to contrast the ordered patterns of Islamic observances with the unbounded rhythms of American school days.

Fountas & Pinnell Level N

Summary

Chapter 1: Lailah is Excited for Ramadan

Lailah is a young girl who has recently moved to the United States from Abu Dhabi. She is excited for the month of Ramadan to begin, as it will be her first time observing the holy month in a new country. She remembers how much she enjoyed the celebrations and traditions back home, and can't wait to experience Ramadan in the United States.

Real Example: Lailah recalls how her family would gather every evening during Ramadan to break their fast with dates and a traditional meal. She also remembers the fun family outings they would have during the month, such as visiting the local market to buy new clothes and decorations for their home.

Chapter 2: Lailah's Mom Gives Her a Special Gift

Lailah's mother gives her a lunchbox that she had packed with her favorite foods from home. She explains that during Ramadan, Lailah will not be able to eat or drink anything from sunrise to sunset, so she must have a proper meal before the sun rises. Lailah is touched by her mother's thoughtfulness and takes the lunchbox to school with her.

Real Example: Lailah's mother reminds her how important it is to stay nourished during the long hours of fasting. She also reminds her that it is a tradition to share food with others, and that Lailah should offer some of her lunch to her friends at school who may not understand Ramadan.

Chapter 3: Lailah is Scared to Share Ramadan at School

As Lailah gets ready for school, she starts to feel nervous about explaining Ramadan to her classmates. She is worried that they won't understand or may make fun of her. Her friend, Khadija, also from Abu Dhabi, will be joining her at the same school and Lailah takes comfort in knowing that she will not be alone.

Real Example: Lailah's fears of being different and not fitting in are common among immigrant and minority students. They may often feel pressure to conform to the majority culture and may struggle with explaining their own cultural and religious background to others.

Chapter 4: Khadija and Lailah Share Their Ramadan Stories

During lunch at school, Lailah and Khadija open their lunchboxes and share their food with each other. They also share stories and memories from back home, and Lailah starts to feel more comfortable about talking about Ramadan with her friend.

Real Example: Food is often a way to bond and connect with others, and sharing traditional foods from home can help children feel a sense of familiarity and connection. Lailah and Khadija's bond over their shared experiences as Muslim girls from Abu Dhabi is an example of the importance of representation and diversity in schools.

Chapter 5: Lailah Learns About Ramadan Around the World

Lailah's teacher, Mrs. Penbrook, reads a book about Ramadan to the class, and Lailah is proud to see her religion and culture being represented. Mrs. Penbrook also tells the class that Ramadan is observed in many different countries around the world and shares some interesting facts and traditions from different cultures.

Real Example: Lailah's teacher is being inclusive and teaching cultural sensitivity by acknowledging and celebrating different cultures and their traditions. This can help students develop empathy and understanding for their peers from diverse backgrounds.

Chapter 6: Lailah Shares Her Ramadan Tradition with the Class

Feeling more confident and proud of her identity, Lailah asks Mrs. Penbrook if she can share her Ramadan tradition of breaking the fast with the class. Mrs. Penbrook agrees and Lailah explains the significance of dates and shares them with her classmates.

Real Example: Lailah's act of sharing her tradition with her classmates is an act of bravery and representation. By explaining the significance of dates, she also teaches her classmates about her culture and religion, breaking barriers and building bridges of understanding.

Chapter 7: Lailah Feels Accepted by Her Classmates

After Lailah's presentation, her classmates are excited to try the dates and ask her more questions about Ramadan. Lailah feels relieved and happy that her classmates are interested and accepting of her religious practices.

Real Example: Learning about different cultures and religions can help break stereotypes and promote inclusivity in schools. By creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students, Lailah's classmates are setting a positive example of cultural acceptance and understanding.

Chapter 8: Lailah Celebrates Her First Ramadan in the United States

As the month of Ramadan comes to an end, Lailah reflects on her first Ramadan in the United States. She is grateful for her family, friends, and classmates who have made her feel accepted and supported during this special time. She also realizes that she can observe Ramadan and share her traditions no matter where she is in the world.

Real Example: Lailah's experience highlights the importance of community and diversity in making students feel a sense of belonging. It also reminds us that no matter where we are, our traditions and customs are important and can be shared with others.