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The Proudest Blue Literature Guide

Grade Level: 
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Keywords: 
Diverse People
Islam
Respect
by Ibtihaj Muhammad - A guide for parents, teachers, and group leaders to accompany the reading of this picture book. The guide below provides before, during, and after-reading discussion questions. Choose from activities and discussion questions to celebrate the joy and purpose of wearing a hijab.

In this book, sisters Asiy and Faizah are celebrating the first day of wearing hijab. Other kids don't understand, but Faizah is proud of the strength and beauty of her hijab and the way that it represents their Muslim faith and culture. 

Before Reading

Ask: What are some things you wear on first days? What is like to have a new pair of shoes or a new backpack? A hijab is a headscarf worn proudly as a part of the Muslim faith.

Show: Look at the cover showing Faizah sailing in the blue of her sister's head scarf. What are some things that are blue?

Connect: If you have ever seen a sibling or friend teased, you may have an idea of how Faizah feels. What are some things you can say to support a friend who is teased?

During Reading

Ask: How does Faizah describe her sister's hijab? How are her descriptions like poetry? 

Show: Notice the pictures of the kids who tease. Why do you think the drawings of those kids don't have any detail?

Connect: Mother told the girls not to carry around the hurtful words of others. What does it look like to drop the words? What does it mean that they are not yours to keep and belong only to those who said them?

After Reading

Ask: What do you think is the main idea or message of the story?

Show: Look at the picture and notes from the author at the end of the book. The author says this is story of family, love, and faith. Why did she write the book and share her story?

Connect: Many people wear special head wear or clothing representing their faith. What is the purpose of wearing special clothing? Why is it never okay to tease someone for their differentness or the way they are dressed?

Activities

  1. Just like the author told her story of love and family, you can tell your story. Write a sentence telling the main message of your story. The story you want to share with others.
  2. Draw a beautiful scarf in your favorite color or colors. Describe its colors in terms of nature. 
  3. Read about head wear in different cultures. 
  4. Generous listening is an act of philanthropy. Take the time to learn the some else's "story of family, love and faith". This Oral History Project from Learning to Give can inspire you to learn more about someone in your life.
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