My friends eat pork

This is a book which is surely going to interest many a Muslim young reader. As the title implies, Muslims in some parts of the world live amongst people who consume pork and its derivatives. Muslims are often asked about this particular dietary abstention. The story is about Ahmad, a six year old Muslim boy, who avoids eating pork and its products. However, he faces several dilemmas on a daily basis. He observes that unlike his friends, he is unable to eat a ham sandwich at a birthday party or a burger with bacon at a school event. More so, at the weekend, he is at a restaurant with his parents where he is unable to eat pepperoni pizza, consequently he opts for a vegetarian one. For Ahmad, this is all confusing to him. Thus, the author tactfully captures several social contexts to demonstrate where Muslims might face this genuine dilemma. Fortunately, Ahmad’s wise grandma comes to his rescue. In the comfort of her home, he asks why his family does not consume these products. The author is to be praised for capturing this setting where the subtle message, it seems, is about not only asking trusted people but actually seeking knowledge.