Khadija and the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment - by Farah Qaiser & Hajer Nakua (Hardcover)

About the Book

Khadija is inspired by her visit to the science fair. But how come none of the scientists are wearing a hijab, she wonders? Khadija recreates an experiment at home with mixed (and messy!) results. Surrounded by family as they celebrate Eid, Khadija tries again, with great success. She declares, "When I grow up, I'm going to be a scientist!"

Book Synopsis

Khadija is inspired by her visit to the science fair. There are so many different scientists all wearing safety goggles and lab coats! But how come none of them are wearing a hijab?

After watching a scientist carry out the elephant toothpaste experiment, Khadija attempts to recreate it at home with mixed (and messy!) results. Surrounded by her family as they celebrate Eid, Khadija tries again....

"Salaam everyone, and Eid Mubarak!" she cries. "When I grow up, I'm going to be a scientist!"

Review Quotes

"Try the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment From this Great New Book....the title character is inspired by a visit to a science fair. She loves the safety goggles and lab coats the scientists are wearing but wonders why no one is wearing a hijab....The foam looks like toothpaste squirting out of a tube! That's why it's called the Elephant Toothpaste experiment--only an elephant could use toothpaste this large."

-- "Today's Parent"

"An important book about the need for representation of all identities in various fields."

-- "Toronto Star"

"Farah Qaiser and Hajer Nakua show young readers that a little Muslim girl who wants to be a scientist can achieve that dream, because their message in Khadija and the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment is all about opportunity and inclusion. Ottawa illustrator Natalya Tariq uses cartoon art to give brightness and innocence to Khadija's story. There's a wide-eyed wonder to the child that is infused in every illustration.... This can only inspire all children to follow their dreams, whether into science or into the arts."-- "CanLit for Little Canadians"

"The picture book illustrates how children can find their passion through play, and shows that you should never have to compromise your identity to fit in.... Khadija and the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment is well-written and beautifully illustrated."-- "Quill and Quire"

"Khadija and the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment clearly showcases its authors's passion for science and their desire to make the field accessible to people from all walks of life. Natalya Tariq's illustrations lovingly capture the cultural specificity of both characters and settings while remaining vibrant and appealing to young readers."

-- "Canadian Review of Materials"