Mommy’s Khimar

Reviewed by Mahasin

Review Source: Hijabi Librarians
Book Author: Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

“A khimar is a flowing scarf that my mommy wears,” explains a young African-American girl in the opening pages of Mommy’s Khimar, a new picture book from Simon and Schuster’s Salaam Reads imprint, written by first-time author, educator, and activist Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and illustrated by Ebony Glenn.

The term “khimar” may be new to many who know the headscarf worn by Muslim women as a “hijab” based on public discourse about the garb, but for some, including many African-American Muslims, “khimar” has long been the preferred term for the head-covering.

As an African-American Muslim myself, I have eagerly awaited the publication of Mommy’s Khimar. Finally, a book with characters that look like me and my family, and uses familiar language. Turns out, I’m not alone. Continue reading.

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Mommy's Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
Published by Simon and Schuster on April 3, 2018
Genres: Muslim
Pages: 40
Reading Level: Grade K, Grades 1-2, Grades 3-5
ISBN: 9781534400603
Review Source: Hijabi Librarians
Also by this author: Abdul's Story, Salat in Secret

Publisher's Synopsis: A young Muslim girl spends a busy day wrapped up in her mother’s colorful headscarf in this sweet and fanciful picture book from debut author and illustrator Jamilah Tompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn.

A khimar is a flowing scarf that my mommy wears. Before she walks out the door each day, she wraps one around her head.

A young girl plays dress up with her mother’s headscarves, feeling her mother’s love with every one she tries on. Charming and vibrant illustrations showcase the beauty of the diverse and welcoming community in this portrait of a young Muslim American girl’s life.