Posted in Books, Reviews

Review: Halal Hot Dogs

This review was originally published in School Library Journal, April 1, 2021. Additional images from publisher’s websiteHalal Hot Dogs will be published on May 4, 2021.

Review: Halal Hot Dogs

by Susannah Aziz (text), illus. by Parwinder Singh. Little Bee Books. May 2021. 40p. Tr $17.99 ISBN 9781499811575

Gr 2–4—It’s Friday, Musa’s favorite day of the week—the day his family, including his mother, father, siblings, and grandfather walk together to attend Jummah prayer service at a local masjid and have a special meal together afterward. After weeks of waiting and enduring some food mishaps, it’s finally Musa’s turn to choose the family’s post-Jummah treat. He knows exactly what he wants: halal hot dogs from a stand near the masjid, topped with Salam sauce, of course.

This lively tale chronicles Musa’s Friday adventure through the streets of his vibrant urban neighborhood. Bright cartoon illustrations contribute to the feel of the story. While the family’s ethnic identity isn’t explicitly identified, references to dishes such as molokhia and kefte, and mentions of cultural traditions (debke, a folk dance popular in Palestinian and Lebanese communities), as well as depictions of family members wearing traditional dress, offer an unabashed representation of a loving and positive Middle Eastern family. Community members at the masjid and in the neighborhood are depicted in various skin tones, shapes, and sizes, with names representing diverse ethnic backgrounds. A glossary of Arabic words and terms and an explanation of halal laws provide additional context.

VERDICT An enjoyable tour of food, faith, and family.

—Mahasin A. Aleem, Oakland P.L., CA

Halal Hot Dogs by Susannah Aziz

Halal Hot DogsHalal Hot Dogs By Susannah Aziz
Illustrated by Parwinder Singh
Simon & Schuster/Little Bee Books

Musa has the perfect idea for his special Jummah treat, but things don’t go according to plan. Will Musa be able to get a yummy Jummah treat for his family?

Every Friday after Jummah prayer at the masjid, Musa’s family has a special Jummah treat. They take turns picking out what the treat will be, but recently the choices have been . . . interesting. Week one, Mama made molokhia. It’s perfect for sharing, but gives us molokhia teeth for days! Week two, Baba burned the kufte kebabs on the grill. Week three, Seedi made his favorite riz b’haleeb-creamy rice pudding with pistachio sprinkled on top with an unexpected ingredient. Last week, Maryam brought jellybeans. . . . Finally, it’s Musa’s turn to pick, and he picks his favorite-halal hot dogs! But actually getting to eat this deliciousness turns into a journey riddled with obstacles. Will he ever get his favorite tasty treat?

Cover image and summary via Simon & Schuster

Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin

Hana Khan Carries On by Uzma JalaluddinHana Khan Carries On by Uzma Jalaluddin
Penguin Random House/Berkley

Cover image and summary via Penguin Random House