Answer: As someone who primarily takes their Islamic knowledge and reading from Arabic sources, I sometimes find it challenging to recommend English books or stay updated with all the English resources available. However, after thoroughly researching various publishers and resources, I can suggest some valuable books in English that address the topic of raising children.
1. Books by Shaykh Muhammad Al-Jibali:
The best English books I know of on this topic are a series of four books by Shaykh Muhammad Al-Jibali (may Allah protect and preserve him):
- The Quest for Love and Mercy: This book deals with finding a spouse.
- Closer Than a Garment: This book focuses on intimacy in marriage.
- The Fragile Vessels: This book discusses the rights of husbands and wives.
- Our Precious Sprouts: This book is specifically about raising children.
For raising children, Our Precious Sprouts would be my first recommendation in English.
2. Excerpts from Classical Works:
I also recommend looking for translated excerpts from classical Islamic works, such as:
- Tuhfat al-Mawlood by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah: This book covers rulings related to newborn children and, toward the end, discusses matters related to older children. You can find translated excerpts, paragraphs, or articles online by searching for Tuhfat al-Mawlood.
- Zad al-Ma'ad by Ibn Qayyim: This work also contains valuable insights on raising children.
3. Works by Ibn Al-Jawzi:
Another excellent resource is Ibn Al-Jawzi's book, Sincere Counsel to the Seekers of Sacred Knowledge, which includes beneficial points on this topic.
4. Other Modern Resources:
There are also smaller books in English by contemporary scholars, such as:
- A book on family life by Shaykh Sulayman Al-Ruhaily.
- An explanation of the book of marriage from Bulugh al-Maram by Ibn 'Uthaymeen.
While there are many Arabic resources on this topic, the English books by Shaykh Muhammad Al-Jibali are a must-have for those seeking guidance on marriage, family, and raising children. Additionally, translated excerpts from Ibn Qayyim and Ibn Al-Jawzi are highly beneficial.
And Allah, the Almighty knows best.
— Answered by Ustadh Muhammad Tim Humble
