Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors

With a young Muslim girl as a guide, this picture book links everyday colours to Islamic life, from a red prayer rug to a blue hijab. Each colour opens a window on clothing, food and other important parts of Muslim culture.

Why Dad Recommends It

This is the youngest-friendly pick in this batch, and I think families will love how it turns a simple colours book into something much richer. Mehrdokht Amini's jewel-toned illustrations are full of patterns, architecture and family scenes that reward a second and third look. Arabic words are woven into the text, and a glossary at the back helps grown-ups explain them. It works brilliantly for Muslim families and for anyone wanting to introduce little ones to Islam in a beautiful, gentle way.

What Children Can Learn

Little ones practise their colours while learning about Muslim traditions such as prayer, charity and Eid.

What Parents Can Take From It

This is a great bedtime book for younger siblings, and it makes a fun 'colour hunt' around the house afterwards: can you find something red, blue or gold? You could also link it to the kitchen by picking out colourful ingredients for a family meal together and naming each colour as you go. Older children can enjoy finding the Arabic words and looking them up in the glossary.