Almost Sunset: A Graphic Novel – A Heartfelt Journey Through Hassan’s Seventh Grade
When I first picked up Almost Sunset: A Graphic Novel by Aisha Saeed, I was immediately drawn in not just by its vibrant illustrations, but also by the promise of a story deeply rooted in the experiences of an immigrant family during Ramadan. As someone who is always intrigued by narratives that explore cultural intersections, this book felt like a warm hug waiting to be opened.
At 224 pages, Almost Sunset is a delightful dive into the life of seventh grader Hassan, who juggles schoolwork, soccer, and the challenges of maintaining his faith while navigating the pressures of adolescence. Ramadan serves as the backdrop for this coming-of-age story, enriching the narrative with themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of personal integrity. I felt genuine empathy for Hassan, who struggles against the societal expectations of both his peers and his family, all while wanting to keep his fasting a closely guarded secret.
Saeed beautifully captures the heartbeat of school life, showing us the humor and chaos of Hassan’s routine—his vivid daydreams about food during class, avoiding difficult conversations with friends, and trying not to fall asleep in lectures. The art style complements the narrative too, lending a playful quality to the serious themes that emerge. One moment that struck me was when Hassan covertly contemplates sneaking food during his fast, reflecting a universal struggle with temptation, but compounded with the weighty implications of faith. This beautiful portrayal of inner conflict resonates on so many levels, making it a relatable tale for readers both Muslim and non-Muslim alike.
One of the things I appreciated most was how Saeed tackled complex themes without shying away from showing the pressures placed on Hassan by both his friends and his family. The book illustrates the complexities of growing up in a multicultural environment, shedding light on the added burdens immigrant youth carry. However, I found myself puzzled at times by Hassan’s hesitance to openly discuss his fasting with his friends, especially since he had shared it in the previous year. Wouldn’t a simple explanation suffice? It felt slightly disconnected from the increasing awareness of Ramadan in many Western contexts.
The pacing of the story, while engaging, is sometimes brisk, leaving certain emotional beats under-explored. For instance, the decision to have the season-ending pizza party coincide with iftar seemed a missed opportunity to model supportive behavior from friends and coaches, particularly when the soccer coach himself shares the same faith. These moments could have reinforced the story’s message about community and understanding.
As Hassan ultimately learns to trust his instinct and embrace his identity, I felt a wave of affirming warmth wash over me. His growth wasn’t just about fasting; it was about understanding that he isn’t alone in his experiences, and that making mistakes is part of the journey.
I can see Almost Sunset resonating with kids navigating the complexities of their own identities—especially those from immigrant backgrounds trying to straddle two cultures. This graphic novel not only provides a glimpse into Ramadan but also invites discussions about friendship, faith, and growing up. For educators and parents, it’s a fantastic addition to any bookshelf, encouraging young readers to reflect and share their own experiences.
In the end, my experience with this book was not just an enjoyable read, but a heartfelt journey that echoed my own youth. I walked away with a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of young Muslim children today, and I am excited to see the conversations it will spark among its readers.
Discover more about Almost Sunset: A Graphic Novel on GoodReads >>