Zamzam For Everyone: Sharing Water at Hajj
Mariam is on a pilgrimage in the city of Makkah, in Saudi Arabia, with her mother and father to celebrate Hajj. Hajj is a Muslim pilgrimage, one that every Muslim must make at least once in their life. Mariam is caught up in the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Here she learns that Hajj is a time for sharing and showing gratitude. She also learns about the ancient well containing the blessed water Zamzam. Mariam fills her drinking bottle with sacred water, and throughout her day, she meets many pilgrims with whom to share her Zamzam.
Through the diverse cast of characters, warmly illustrated by Dawoud, Mariam finds opportunities to help people, and she gets to try new treats and sweets with her new friends from around the world – and in doing so can find moments to be thankful. Every scene is bubbling with festivities and joy, while maintaining a sense of the sacredness that comes with a religious practice. The book not only contains the sweet tale of Mariam’s first pilgrimage, it also has several pages at the back providing information about Makkah, Zamzam, the clothes pilgrims wear, as well as a list of the delicious foods Mariam tries.
Given that Makkah is a city only Muslims may enter, this beautiful book provides some wonderful insights into the history of the city, the Islamic faith, and the Hajj pilgrimage. An important book for curious young minds, eager to learn about world cultures and faiths.
