Laura Jacobsen Illustration

From School Library Journal (December 2007):
"Gr 1-4 –This beautifully composed story straddles two worlds–America and Islamic Indo-Pakistani culture... This is a heartwarming tale of a child’s generosity, and Jacobsen’s illustrations flesh out the warmth and tenderness of the characters’ interaction. This is a welcome contribution, giving much-needed visibility to a celebration observed by over ten million people in North America . A glossary explains the Arabic and Urdu terms.–Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Oberlin Public Library, OH "

From Southern California InFocus:
"Though Muslims pride themselves on the non-commercialization of Eid, many Muslim children approach the Islamic holiday as a chance to stock up on the latest toys, forgetting that most children have little more than nothing with which to celebrate. Asma Mobin-Uddin’s new children’s book, "The Best Eid Ever," is a gentle reminder that what makes Eid special is not the new clothes and toys, but giving from what you have for the sake of Allah.

In the beautifully illustrated book, little Aneesa has to spend Eid ul-Adha without her parents, who are in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage."

From The Edge of the Forest:
"This is a culturally diverse story full of heart and human spirit. Jacobsen's brilliant illustrations match the moods of the text and introduce new objects, while bringing new life to familiar objects at the same time.

A gorgeous picture book that would look perfect on any child's bookshelf!"

From Young Adult (& Kid's) Book Central:
"A cultural awakening for curious spirits, this is a fabulous and educational picture book.

Jacobsen’s full-page, colorful illustrations show a mastery of light and shadow. They bring life to everyday household objects and parallel the emotions of the text perfectly.

A lovely addition to any child’s bookshelf!"

From The Horn Book:
"K-3 Illustrated by Laura Jacobsen. Her parents on Hajj pilgrimage, Aneesa spends the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha with her grandmother, who tries to cheer her with special foods and presents. When she meets a refugee family, Aneesa plans a special gift for them. The text is sentimental but informative. Pastel pencil drawings showcase Aneesa's emotions. An author's note gives more information."




				The Best Eid Ever Story by Asma Mobin-Uddin Illustrated by Laura Jacobsen *From School Library Journal* (December 2007): "Gr 1-4 –This beautifully composed story straddles two worlds–America and Islamic Indo-Pakistani culture... This is a heartwarming tale of a child’s generosity, and Jacobsen’s illustrations flesh out the warmth and tenderness of the characters’ interaction. This is a welcome contribution, giving much-needed visibility to a celebration observed by over ten million people in North America . A glossary explains the Arabic and Urdu terms.–Fawzia Gilani-Williams, Oberlin Public Library, OH " From Southern California InFocus: "Though Muslims pride themselves on the non-commercialization of Eid, many Muslim children approach the Islamic holiday as a chance to stock up on the latest toys, forgetting that most children have little more than nothing with which to celebrate. Asma Mobin-Uddin’s new children’s book, "The Best Eid Ever," is a gentle reminder that what makes Eid special is not the new clothes and toys, but giving from what you have for the sake of Allah. In the beautifully illustrated book, little Aneesa has to spend Eid ul-Adha without her parents, who are in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage." From The Edge of the Forest: "This is a culturally diverse story full of heart and human spirit. Jacobsen's brilliant illustrations match the moods of the text and introduce new objects, while bringing new life to familiar objects at the same time. A gorgeous picture book that would look perfect on any child's bookshelf!" From Young Adult (& Kid's) Book Central: "A cultural awakening for curious spirits, this is a fabulous and educational picture book. Jacobsen’s full-page, colorful illustrations show a mastery of light and shadow. They bring life to everyday household objects and parallel the emotions of the text perfectly. A lovely addition to any child’s bookshelf!" From The Horn Book:** "K-3 Illustrated by Laura Jacobsen. Her parents on Hajj pilgrimage, Aneesa spends the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha with her grandmother, who tries to cheer her with special foods and presents. When she meets a refugee family, Aneesa plans a special gift for them. The text is sentimental but informative. Pastel pencil drawings showcase Aneesa's emotions. An author's note gives more information."
Awards Featured in MOSAIC 2007, an annual multicultural literature exhibit hosted by Lincoln (NE) Public Schools Library Media Services. The exhibit featured the best and most current multicultural titles from 2006-2007. Included on the 15th Annual Skipping Stones Honor Awards list. Included in the 2008 edition of "The Best Children’s Books of the Year, an annotated bibliography from the Children’s" Book Committee of Bank Street College of Education in New York City. Middle East Book Award Honorable Mention --Middle East Outreach Council (MEOC) Storytelling World Resource Awards Honor Book