Once Upon an Eid Review: Celebrating Eid Through Muslim Voices

 

"What makes a day special? What I mean is, what makes a special day special?" 

Once Upon an Eid is a heartwarming anthology that brings together fifteen Muslim authors to celebrate one of the most joyful days of the year: Eid. Through short stories and lovely spot illustrations, this collection captures the many emotions and traditions surrounding this special holiday. 

Eid may be a short, single-syllable word, but for Muslims, it carries so much meaning. It might remind you of waking up to the sound of frying samosas in the kitchen, the sweet comfort of bean pie, or the excitement of wearing a brand-new outfit for Eid prayer. For others, it’s about gift-giving, family gatherings, or long-awaited reunions. Whatever the tradition, the feeling that ties it all together is simple and powerful: joy. 

This anthology beautifully showcases the diverse ways in which Eid celebrations can be observed. Religious holidays often require preparation, and every family has its own special traditions shaped by culture and heritage. Some families prepare brownies or donuts, others serve biryani or spicy beef dishes. Some celebrate by giving generously to friends and neighbors, while others travel far to visit relatives. Through these stories, we see both similarities and beautiful differences in how Eid is celebrated around the world. 

What I especially loved is how personal and compelling each story feels. Some moments may bring tears, and others will make you smile warmly. The emotional range makes the reading experience feel real and relatable. The illustrations included in each chapter add another layer of beauty to the book, making it even more engaging. 

One of the most interesting things I noticed while reading is how Eid traditions vary across countries. In many Western countries, Muslims commonly exchange gifts during Eid. Meanwhile, in many Southeast Asian cultures, there is a tradition of giving money to younger family members. Learning about these cultural differences was such a meaningful part of the experience. It reminds us that while our traditions may differ, the spirit of Eid remains the same. 

Compelling, heartfelt, and full of warmth, Once Upon an Eid is a book that feels comforting and uplifting. It’s the kind of collection that would be wonderful to revisit every Eid, as a reminder of community, gratitude, and joy. 

If you’re looking for a meaningful read that celebrates Muslim identity and diverse traditions beautifully, this anthology is definitely worth picking up.