Islamic Weekend Schools Textbooks

We have identified the following Islamic Weekend Schools Textbooks. Although we do not endorse any of them, presenting them together may be helpful for Masjid Boards during their system evaluation and selection processes.

1. Weekend Learning Series

The most widely used curriculum in North America, specifically engineered for the 3–4 hour weekend school window.

  • Description: A 12-level series (KG–Grade 12) featuring lessons timed for 50-minute blocks. It integrates Aqidah, Fiqh, Seerah, and History into a single grade-level textbook.

  • Website: weekendlearning.com

2. Safar Publications (Islamic Studies Series)

A UK-based series that has gained global acclaim for its professional design and pedagogical depth.

  • Description: Uses a "spiral" approach where students revisit core concepts with increasing complexity. Their Qaidah and Tajweed books are also considered gold standards.

  • Website: safarpublications.org

3. I Love Islam Series (ISF Publications)

Known for high production value and engaging visuals for younger learners.

  • Description: Targeted at Grades 1–5, this series focuses on building an emotional connection to Islam through stories and colorful illustrations.

  • Website: isfpublications.org

4. Learning Islam / Living Islam (ISF Publications)

The continuation of the I Love Islam series for older students.

  • Description: Learning Islam covers Middle School (Grades 6–8), while Living Islam covers High School (Grades 9–12), focusing on identity, contemporary issues, and ethics.

  • Website: isfpublications.org

5. An-Nasihah Publications

A modern series that incorporates digital learning tools for a new generation of Muslims.

  • Description: Features a sleek, contemporary layout covering seven core subjects. Includes a digital "Nasihah World" portal to keep students engaged outside of class.

  • Website: an-nasihah.com

6. IQRA’ WISE (Weekend Islamic School Excellence)

From the legendary IQRA’ International Educational Foundation.

  • Description: A condensed version of their full-time curriculum, WISE is academically rigorous and focuses on a traditional foundation in Islamic sciences.

  • Website: iqrafoundation.com

7. ICO Islamic Studies (International Curricula Organization)

A globally recognized, research-backed curriculum.

  • Description: Available in multiple languages, this series is highly structured and provides extensive teacher manuals, making it ideal for larger schools with more resources.

  • Website: iconetwork.com

8. Yaqeen Institute Curriculum

A newer, research-driven resource focused on "dismantling doubts" and building conviction.

  • Description: Designed primarily for middle and high school students, these units tackle tough philosophical questions and modern challenges with academic and spiritual depth.

  • Website: yaqeeninstitute.org/curriculum

9. Goodword Islamic Studies

Created by Saniyasnain Khan, these are perfect for schools with a focus on storytelling.

  • Description: Very accessible and budget-friendly. The books rely heavily on Quranic stories and life lessons, making them excellent for primary grades or supplemental reading.

  • Website: goodwordbooks.com

10. Noor Kids (Character Building Program)

A unique, monthly program focusing on identity and "thinking" rather than rote memorization.

  • Description: Though not a traditional textbook, it is used by hundreds of schools to teach Akhlaq (character) and critical thinking to kids ages 4–9.

  • Website: noorkids.com

11. Darussalam Islamic Education Series

A traditional and widely available series covering all grade levels.

  • Description: Follows a classical pedagogical style with a heavy emphasis on authentic Hadith and literal Fiqh applications.

  • Website: darussalam.us

12. My First Quran Storybook Series (Iqra’ Foundation)

Specialized curriculum for the early childhood (Pre-K and KG) levels.

  • Description: Focuses on the "sensory" experience of Islam—coloring, basic Duas, and simple stories of the Prophets to foster early love for the faith.

  • Website: iqrafoundation.com

13. Studies in Islam (Maulvi Abdul Aziz)

A classic, long-standing series published by Indian and Pakistani outlets but used globally.

  • Description: A very straightforward, factual series for Grades 1–8. It is often chosen by schools looking for a more "back-to-basics" traditional approach.

  • Website: islamicbookstore.com (Distributor)

14. Kube Publishing (Children’s Books)

While they offer individual titles rather than a single series, they are a primary source for supplementary materials.

  • Description: Known for books like "A Day With the Prophet" and "The Best of Eid." Excellent for building a weekend school library or themed lesson plans.

  • Website: kubepublishing.com

15. Gateway to Arabic (Dr. Imran Alawiye)

The leading series for teaching Arabic as a second language in weekend schools.

  • Description: While technically for Arabic, most weekend schools use this series to complement their Islamic studies for reading and writing skills.

  • Website: gatewaytoarabic.com

16. Eemaan Made Easy (Shaykh Muhammad al-Jibaly)

A targeted series for teaching the Six Pillars of Iman.

  • Description: Broken down into specific levels (e.g., "Knowing Allah," "Knowing the Angels"), this is excellent for schools that want a deep focus on Aqidah.

  • Website: alkitaabas-sunnah.com

17. The Right Path Series (Universal Academy)

A curriculum born out of practical classroom experience in Florida.

  • Description: Focuses on practical application, such as how to perform Wudu and Salah, with workbook-style activities designed for immediate student feedback.

  • Website: islamicbookstore.com (Distributor)

18. Tughra Books (Children’s Series)

Focuses on the spiritual and mystical aspects of the faith.

  • Description: Their series often highlight the Ahlaq of the Prophets and the inner meanings of worship, offering a softer, more spiritual perspective.

  • Website: tughrabooks.com

19. Shade 7 Publishing

Specializes in interactive "Pop-Up" and novelty Islamic books.

  • Description: Used by schools to make the Quran "come alive." Their "Story of the Elephant" pop-up book is a favorite for classroom storytime.

  • Website: shade7publishing.com

20. Everyday Ibaadah Academy

An online and hybrid-first curriculum provider.

  • Description: While they offer live classes, their curriculum materials are available for schools looking to integrate more technology and hybrid learning into their weekend programs.

  • Website: everydayibaadahacademy.com