Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Book Review - The Apple Tree (The Prophet Says Series)

I have never reviewed a book based on Islam or its principles here on Being Zoe's Mom, the reason, Zoe was young to understand the concept. The first book based on a Hadith (traditions containing sayings of the prophet Muhammad which, with accounts of his daily practice) which I picked for Z was - The Apple Tree from The Prophet Says Series. I intend to pick more soon.

Coming to the review now:



Book: The Apple Tree (The Prophet Says Series)
Author: Mariam Al-Kalby
Illustrator: Yee Von Chan
For ages: 4+ years 

Why I picked it and what was my Reaction:
I saw the The Prophet Says Series page on Facebook, I was looking for books that introduce concepts of Islam in a child friendly manner, and this one fits the bill perfectly. 


Our Take: Zoe's mom loves the story, which is simple yet beautiful. We love the illustrations as well, very neat and clear. Kids will love it. It actually goes beyond religion, and teaches kids the value of generosity and compassion. 

Zoe loves the story, how planting a tree holds more importance than just sowing a few seeds. She also loves the fact, that Allah will reward us if we plant a tree and it is a very good deed. 

The Story: Little Shaima gets a listen of life when she realizes how planting a tree is important. How crucial is giving for the sake of charity and the reward one gets from Allah after planting a tree. 

How We Read it: Now, since Z loves to listen to a book just for its story, we do not use many gimmicks. Its just the story and lots of discussion. The book uses a few Arabic words, but there is a glossary for that. 



BZM Verdict: A must buy we say

Monday, October 13, 2014

So! What do you think Z?

Z is over and done with a stage where she used to rely on her parents for anything and everything. The good thing is she is extremely independent. The bad thing is we think she is growing up and we miss the baby, Z was not long back.



Now whenever we have to take a decision, as a family (at least the smaller ones Z is directly involved with), we try to involve Z. Right now, these are fairly simple things like, what should we have for lunch... what should we do on weekends as a family, what shirt should her dad wear (that is between Z & dad and, I must say, she has an extremely good sense of colours).

It is good because we think, Z feels important, she thinks she is an important member in the house. Another important thing that happened is, Z has now become less stubborn and she is open to listen to what her parents have to say... not only listen, she also agrees to what we say. Z has become extremely attached (not clingy) to the both of us as well.

With her fourth birthday approaching, I have planned something special for November - her birthday month. There is something special for 26 Days of November. There will be a party on Being Zoe's Mum.

Wild Karnataka – Experience

We were ecstatic when we got to know we were going to see  Wild Karnataka.  It was a long trip to Vega City mall, Bannerghetta Road, Benga...