Author Profile
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
8 Books
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow is a children's book author and former English educator who writes stories that center and celebrate Black and Muslim childhoods. Her vibrant picture books and middle-grade stories invite readers to explore themes of identity, family, and community. Her widely read works include Mommy's Khimar, Your Name is a Song, and Abdul's Story. She draws heavily on her own experiences and heritage to craft relatable narratives for young readers. Her storytelling consistently highlights the beauty of everyday moments and the power of finding one's voice.
Raindrops are falling, and Momma always says that rain during Ramadan brings special blessings and answers to our prayers. As Haneen rides the slow bus through the wet city streets, she watches the raindrops slide down the glass and secretly prays for shiny new shoes and a bright dress for Eid.
When they finally arrive at the bustling masjid, the celebration begins. Haneen stays busy making colorful greeting cards with her friends, handing out sweet dates, and setting out the dinner mats. Surrounded by her community, she whispers her prayers again.
But this time, her wishes begin to change. Discover how the magic of faith, the kindness of good friends, and the deep love of family become the greatest gifts of all.
6-8 Years
21 Pages
Turning seven is a major milestone for Muhammad because it means he is finally old enough to receive his very own salat rug. He is incredibly proud and determined to complete all five of his daily Muslim prayers right on time. But his excitement quickly turns to anxiety when he realizes one of his prayers falls right in the middle of the school day. Remembering how strangers sometimes stare at his father when he prays in public, Muhammad decides he must keep his salat a secret from his classmates. He searches frantically for a hidden spot to worship, worried about what others might think. This poignant and beautifully illustrated story explores the quiet courage it takes to practice your faith openly. It is an empowering narrative about community, acceptance, and finding a safe space to be yourself.
6-8 Years
41 Pages
Haala wants to keep up with her big sister, Sanaa, on their outdoor adventures. But little sister Munira is always close behind, stepping into the sun, interrupting the quiet, and making everything feel harder.
As the three sisters move through the natural world, Haala notices every small frustration. She wants the wind, the water, and the moment with Sanaa to belong to her. But sisterhood has its own rhythm, and the girls begin to learn how much brighter their day can be when they make room for one another.
Together We Are Sunshine is a warm picture book about siblings, teamwork, and outdoor discovery. Its gentle tone makes it a strong fit for readers who enjoy family stories, nature-filled illustrations, and books about learning to share attention and love.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
Have you ever had a day where nothing seems to go right? After a long day of teachers and classmates mispronouncing her beautiful name, a little girl tells her mother she never wants to go back to school again.
Instead of getting upset, her mother takes her on a lyrical walk through the city streets. Along the way, she teaches her daughter about the wonderful musicality of African, Asian, Black American, Latinx, and Middle Eastern names. They discover that names are not just words, but actual melodies filled with history and magic.
Empowered by this beautiful lesson, the young girl finds her voice and her courage. She returns to school the very next day, ready to share the special song of her own name with the entire class.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
Abdul has a brilliant imagination and absolutely loves to tell stories. But when it comes time to write them down on paper, everything goes wrong. His letters refuse to stand up straight, they often face the completely wrong direction, and his pages always end up covered in gray eraser smudges instead of words.
Feeling frustrated, Abdul decides that his wonderful stories are just not meant to be written down. He is ready to give up on being a writer forever.
Then, a special guest visits his classroom and shares an amazing secret. Abdul learns that even the best writers and the greatest superheroes make messy mistakes. This encouraging journey shows that the best stories come from the heart, not from having perfect handwriting.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
Starting a new school can make you feel completely invisible. Ameena knows this feeling all too well, wandering the halls without anyone truly seeing her.
Everything changes when another new girl joins the class. Ameena immediately notices her brown skin and her beautiful hijab, even when the other kids look right past her. Ameena desperately wants to reach out and be her friend, but she feels too shy. She cannot seem to find the right words to say or figure out the right things to do.
Just when Ameena thinks she missed her chance, a simple greeting bridges the gap between them. Together, they discover the incredible joy of finding someone who understands you and the warm comfort of true friendship.
6-8 Years
44 Pages
A khimar is a flowing scarf that mommy wears, and before she walks out the door each day, she wraps one around her head. When you play dress up with your mother's colorful headscarves, you can feel her love with every single one you try on.
Wrap yourself in the bright fabric and imagine yourself as a shooting star, a dazzling queen, or a brave superhero ready to save the day. Every scarf brings a new adventure and a warm hug from home.
This beautiful story invites you into a day full of imagination and family love. Step into a vibrant world where trying on a simple piece of clothing becomes a magical journey of discovering who you want to be.
6-8 Years
38 Pages
A Love Letter to Black Children
When happy things come into your life, you should hold them close and never let them go. This beautiful journey celebrates the magic of the past, the beauty of the present, and the endless possibilities of the future.
Through stunning photographs and vibrant artwork, you are invited to embrace your boundless joy and honor the powerful words of your ancestors. You will discover the incredible strength you hold inside yourself to change the world for the better.
This uplifting experience is a warm hug in book form, meant to inspire you to march forward with pride and happiness. It is a powerful reminder that your bright light is needed, and your story is just beginning.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
