Leila in Saffron
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Shy and unsure of herself, Leila discovers all the things that make her special with the loving help of her Naani.
Rukhsanna Guidroz Books
Rukhsanna Guidroz is drawn to faraway places and the intersection of diverse cultures, a reflection of her own multicultural heritage. Her experiences in journalism in Hong Kong ignited a desire for a slower pace of life, which she found in Hawaii. Writing has become her way of embarking on new journeys, allowing readers to explore exotic locales and universal human desires through her stories. Her narratives offer a compelling glimpse into distant lands and the enduring quest for connection.
Celebrated as a Kirkus Reviews' Best Picture Book of 2018, this work features stunning illustrations and a heartfelt narrative that captivates readers of all ages. It explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the beauty of everyday moments, inviting young readers to engage with its vibrant imagery and relatable characters. The story encourages imagination and emotional connection, making it a cherished addition to any child's library.
A middle grade novel in verse about Samira, an eleven-year-old Rohingya refugee living in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, who finds strength and sisterhood in a local surf club for girls. Samira thinks of her life as before and after: before the burning and violence in her village in Burma, when she and her best friend would play in the fields, and after, when her family was forced to flee. There's before the uncertain journey to Bangladesh by river, and after, when the river swallowed her nana and nani whole. And now, months after rebuilding a life in Bangladesh with her mama, baba, and brother, there's before Samira saw the Bengali surfer girls of Cox's Bazar, and after, when she decides she'll become one. Samira Surfs, written by Rukhsanna Guidroz with illustrations by Fahmida Azim, is a tender novel in verse about a young Rohingya girl's journey from isolation and persecution to sisterhood, and from fear to power.