Amira & Hamza: The War to Save the Worlds
#1 in Amira & Hamza, 1 Series
on Goodreads (466)
What’s inside...
On the day of a rare super blue blood moon eclipse, twelve-year-old Amira and her little brother, Hamza, can’t stop their bickering while attending a special exhibit on medieval Islamic astronomy. While stargazer Amira is wowed by the amazing gadgets, a bored Hamza wanders off, stumbling across the mesmerizing and forbidden Box of the Moon. Amira can only watch in horror as Hamza grabs the defunct box and it springs to life, setting off a series of events that could shatter their world—literally.
Suddenly, day turns to night, everyone around Amira and Hamza falls under a sleep spell, and a chunk of the moon breaks off, hurtling toward them at lightning speed, as they come face-to-face with two otherworldly creatures: jinn.
The jinn reveal that the siblings have a role to play in an ancient prophecy. Together, they must journey to the mystical land of Qaf, battle a great evil, and end a civil war to prevent the moon—the stopper between realms—from breaking apart and unleashing terrifying jinn, devs, and ghuls onto earth. Or they might have to say goodbye to their parents and life as they know it, forever.…
Why read this book
- Engaging adventure enriches curiosity and imagination.
- Diverse characters enhance cultural understanding.
- Encourages resilience and teamwork lessons.
- Supports comprehension and vocabulary growth.
Character compass
Amira
Hamza
Iblis
Discussion points
What did you think about Amira's bravery in the face of challenges? How would you react in a similar situation?
How do Amira and Hamza's adventures change their understanding of courage and friendship?
What are some of the lessons that Amira and Hamza learn about different cultures and beliefs throughout their journey?
Why is it important to work together to solve problems, as shown by the characters in the story?
Can you think of a time when you had to protect something important like Amira and Hamza did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on the characters' decisions and relate them to their own experiences.
Discuss the significance of cultural diversity and acceptance, as portrayed in the book.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different choices the characters might have made.
Highlight the themes of bravery and friendship, and encourage your child to share personal anecdotes about these themes.
Use the fantastical elements of the story to ignite your child's imagination and creativity during the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of bravery and courage
Explanation: Amira and Hamza face numerous challenges and adversaries in their quest, showcasing bravery in the face of fear.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own fears and challenges courageously, whether it's trying out for a sports team, speaking up in class, or standing up against bullying.
Example Lesson: The value of knowledge and learning
Explanation: Throughout the story, Amira's love for science and Hamza's historical knowledge play crucial roles in solving problems and uncovering truths.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and pursue knowledge in their academics and everyday problem-solving, emphasizing that learning can be a superpower.
Example Lesson: The importance of sibling relationships and teamwork
Explanation: Amira and Hamza demonstrate the power of working together, showcasing how sibling support and teamwork can overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Highlights the significance of cooperation and support among siblings and peers, fostering a sense of teamwork in group projects or family responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Respecting cultural diversity
Explanation: The story integrates elements of Islamic mythology and South Asian culture, educating readers about cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: Promotes respect and understanding for diverse cultures among children, encouraging them to embrace multicultural friendships and global awareness.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: The protagonists frequently use their critical thinking skills to navigate the challenges they face in the story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of analyzing situations, thinking critically, and crafting strategic solutions in their day-to-day challenges at school or home.