Forget Barbie! Razanne brings smiles to Muslim girls..
By Michelle J. Mills
Staff writer

Dolls are often the hottest gift items for girls during the holi days, but they rarely represent the morals or beliefs that parents wish to impart.

NoorArt for Kids of Livonia, Mich., specializes in toys that keep Islamic values in mind and has recently released Razanne The Muslim Doll, suitable for holiday gift giving or any time Razanne is dressed modestly, but ready for adventure.

She wears no makeup and has a minimal bustline. The focus here is on what is inside you, not how you look. "We stress character and modesty first and foremost, but the underlying theme is that the Muslim girl can be anything she wants to be and do any thing she wants to do while keeping her faith and values in tact,'' said Noor Saadeh, company spokesman.

Razanne comes in different styles for various activities, all of which include the symbolic white head scarf and basic accessories. Payday Razanne ($10) is dressed in a loose jumper, Schoolgirl Razanne ($13) has a backpack and school accessories and Praying Razanne ($15) has a prayer rug, a Quran-like book and undergarments.

There is also Playday Razanne ($15) dressed in Shalwar Kameez, the pants and tops worn by Muslim girls in Asian lands. She is ready for fun in a bright orange, pink or green outfit. Teacher Razanne ($18) is prepared for her class with a laptop computer, attache case, sun glasses and school accessories.

Eid Mubarak Razanne ($20) celebrates the holiday with a pink or blue floral dress, an Eid card, balloons and some special toiletries. In 'N' Out Razanne ($20) has two outfits, one for home and one for on the go a fashion dress and a jibaab coat, plus a handbag and Scout Razanne ($22) is using her scouting accessories while earning her badges and listening to a tape of Muslim Scout cheers. Razanne is 12 Inches tall and suitable for children age 3 and up. She comes with fair skin and blond hair, olive skin and black hair or dark skin and black hair.

In addition to the dolls, you may purchase the coloring book, "A Day With Razanne'' ($4) and Eid cards ($3 for a package of 10).

For more information or to order Razanne, call (734) 266-9953 or visit www.noorart.com.