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“Alam’s spellbinding illustrations of suburban tranquility are populated with snow-laden rooftops, multicolored twinkle lights, and feelings of loving camaraderie in this holiday tale.”

Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Making clear that Muslim celebrations are just as festive as holidays such as Christmas or Hanukkah, Faruqi delivers a refreshing twist on Eid tales. Brimming with details, Alam’s welcoming illustrations capture the closeness of this family. . . . Simply charming.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Soft illustrations feature a joyful Muslim family and welcoming neighbors in a gentle celebration of religious diversity.”

The Horn Book

The House Without Lights: A Glowing Celebration of Joy, Warmth, and Home

Written by Reem Faruqi
Illustrated by Nadia Alam
Published by Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

In this heartwarming holiday picture book, House misses being decorated for the winter holidays . . . but is delighted to be lit up for Eid instead.

After seeing all of its neighbors’ twinkling lights for the winter holidays, House hopes to shine too. When Huda and her family move in, House thinks its time to sparkle has finally come.

But, Diwali, Hanukkah, and Christmas come and go without a shimmer. Quickly, House learns that every family celebrates joy and togetherness in their own way, no matter the season. And a few months later House will see that this new family has its own holiday to shine for.

This book is sure to be a holiday classic, complete with back matter about the holidays mentioned, including the one House lights up for–Eid.

Primary ISBN: 9781250907219
Publication Date: September 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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