I Wonder about Allah (Book1)

In Muslim communities, there has been a long tradition of transmitting the essence of the fundamental articles of Islamic faith ([aqa’id) in various ways. One such formulaic statement, supposedly designed to facilitate learning by children is known as al-Iman al-mufassal (details of faith). Generally, children memorise, learn and gain some understanding of each article of faith, taught with the rest of the curriculum. However, in reality, in some circles, adults repeat it as part of their penitence or continuous affirmation of their faith. There is also a perception that learning this formula is a practice grounded within South East Asian communities, even though its origins are the Qur’an and ahadith. The book under review appears to be a continuation of this tradition, but with a significant difference in purpose, method and content. Some of the fundamental beliefs about Allah are being examined in depth with the help of the natural world in an open manner and explained in detail using a simple conversational style; perhaps taking account of the way some children, in some parts of the world, apply their thought processes for learning their faith.