‘P Is for Palestine’ & Other Children’s Books to Read on Palestine

In the face of a prevailing wave of pro-Israel propaganda from the Western world, it is of paramount importance to equip ourselves with the wisdom and understanding needed to craft an alternative narrative that authentically portrays Palestine. This compilation serves as an open door, encouraging our children to immerse themselves in Palestinian history, culture, and the lived experiences of its people.

HOMELAND: MY FATHER DREAMS OF PALESTINE

Hannah Moushabeck & Reem Madooh 

As nightfall approaches, three young girls eagerly anticipate the return of their father, a beloved custom that entails his enchanting narratives of a far-off homeland - Palestine. Through his storytelling, their father conjures the Old City of Jerusalem to life: the rhythmic beats of juice vendors on brass cups, the fragrant tendrils of argileh wafting through open windows, and the graceful flight of doves winging their way homeward. These daughters of the diaspora come to hold affection for a place they have never set foot in, an elusive home. Yet, as their father concludes his tales, these young hearts realize that through his recollections, they can eternally journey back to that distant land.

Within the pages of this poignant autobiographical picture book, author Hannah Moushabeck masterfully paints a heartfelt portrait of a Palestinian family that holds the narratives of their homeland dear. Illustrated with heartfelt artistry by Reem Madooh, this narrative stands as a sincere tribute to the notion of home, the enduring ties of family, and the unwavering hope that transcends the confines of geographical boundaries.WHERE THE STREETS HAD A NAME 

Randa Abdel-Fattah

Thirteen-year-old Hayaat has embarked on a mission driven by an unshakable belief. In her heart, she carries the conviction that a mere handful of soil from her grandmother's ancestral home in Jerusalem holds the key to saving her beloved Sitti Zeynab's life. The only obstacle, standing as an insurmountable challenge, is the imposing wall that mercilessly cleaves through the West Bank.

Further complicating their quest are the oppressive checkpoints, the strict curfews, and the perplexing permit system that seems designed to thwart their every move. And then there's Hayaat's best friend, Samy, a young soul primarily interested in football and the latest eliminations on X-Factor, who always seems to attract trouble like a magnet.

Yet, fortune bestows a rare gift upon them. Hayaat and Samy find themselves with a curfew-free day, a precious opportunity to make the journey to Jerusalem. But this path, though mere kilometers in length, may prove to be a lifetime's odyssey, a testament to their unwavering determination and the enduring power of hope.THESE OLIVE TREES

Aya Ghanameh

In the heart of Nablus, Palestine, in the year 1967, a poignant tale unfolds—a narrative that weaves the story of a Palestinian family's profound connection to the land. At its core, this is a story of a young girl who discovers a way to care for her home, even as the winds of change and conflict sweep through her life.

Oraib's heart swells with love for the olive trees that stand proudly outside the refugee camp where she and her family have built their lives. With every harvest, Oraib and her mother embark on the timeless ritual of gathering the small, precious fruits. Oraib's excitement is palpable as she joyfully stomps on them, coaxing out the precious golden oil that lies within. The olives have always been a symbol, a steadfast link that ties her family to the very essence of the land they call home. Oraib becomes a custodian of the stories her Mama shares, tales of a life before the ravages of war.

But as the specter of war once again looms large and menacing on their doorstep, their world is shattered. The family is uprooted, and the life they've known is irrevocably altered. Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Oraib binds herself to a solemn promise, a covenant with her cherished olive trees. She vows to safeguard their legacy, ensuring that it endures and flourishes for generations to come.

In ‘These Olive Trees’, author and illustrator Aya Ghanameh paints a powerful and evocative narrative. It's a story that delves into the depths of bitterness, the enduring light of hope, and the formidable strength that comes from believing in a future that is free and thriving.BABA, WHAT DOES MY NAME MEAN: A JOURNEY TO PALESTINE

Rifk Ebeid & Lamaa Jawhari

Saamidah, a young Palestinian refugee, often finds herself at a loss when asked about the meaning of her name. Curious and eager to uncover the significance behind it, she turns to her baba for guidance. Little does she know that this innocent inquiry will lead her on an extraordinary adventure beyond her wildest dreams. As we follow Saamidah on this lyrical journey, accompanied by dazzling illustrations that breathe life into her beloved homeland, we witness a celebration of her rich cultural heritage and her unyielding determination to one day return.

Ebeid’s ‘Baba, What Does My Name Mean?’ is a tribute to the names and places that have been and continue to be Palestine, etched forever in the hearts of millions. Ebeid's focus on the delectable and the sweetness of presence seamlessly transports me back to the cherished bedtime tales my Palestinian father shared. Remarkably, she weaves her narrative with the cadence of rhyme, a true testament to her storytelling prowess.

As Saamidah embarks on her journey of rediscovering her Palestinian roots, her ancestral homeland transforms from a distant memory into a tangible, vibrant place brimming with life and hope. In a time when mainstream media often assigns negative associations, undertones, and stereotypes to Palestine and its people, Ebeid's book emerges as a refreshing reminder of the indomitable spirit of a people who refuse to be silenced. This beautiful narrative is a gentle whisper of hope, imbued with pure intentions and an underlying, unmistakable message that lingers in the heart and mind.TASTING THE SKY

Ibtisam Barakat

Ibtisam Barakat's memoir unfolds in the heart of Ramallah, against the backdrop of the tumultuous aftermath of the 1967 Six-Day War. Within its pages, Barakat paints an intimate portrait of what it means to be a child in a world torn asunder by the ravages of war. With a raw, unflinching candor, she delicately weaves together the fragments of her childhood - a myriad of experiences marked by fear and confusion as bombs shatter the tranquility of her home, and the heart-wrenching separation from her family. Her narrative also exposes the harsh realities faced by a Palestinian refugee, marked by resilience and unwavering hope in the face of adversity.

Amidst the chaos and turmoil, a gleam of unexpected joy enters young Ibtisam's life - she discovers Alef, the very first letter of the Arabic alphabet. This serendipitous encounter becomes the genesis of her profound connection to the world of words. Language, like a protective sanctuary, provides solace in the midst of turmoil, enabling her to piece together the shattered fragments of her world. In language, she finds her true home.

Beyond the confines of political boundaries, Barakat's memoir offers a luminous and timely narrative, offering readers a window into a lesser-known culture that holds a significant place in the intricate puzzle of world peace. This book transcends the ordinary and provides a compelling glimpse into the beauty and resilience that arise even in the most challenging of circumstances.EASTER IN RAMALLAH: A STORY OF CHILDHOOD MEMORIES 

Wafa Shami & Shaima’ Farouki

This is a heartwarming tale of enduring friendship and time-honored holiday traditions that have been cherished by Palestinian Christian and Muslim families for generations. Within its pages, the story beautifully encapsulates the rich legacy of Easter celebrations that have endured throughout the years, inviting readers on a delightful journey to a place of vibrant festivity.

As you delve into the narrative, you'll find a world teeming with the spirit of merriment. The resonant beats of drums provide a rhythmic backdrop, and love and laughter flow freely through the eyes of a child. It's a celebration that unites communities and transcends boundaries, illustrating the powerful force of shared traditions and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.SITTI’S BIRD: A GAZA STORY 

Malak Mattar

‘Sitti's Bird: A Gaza Story’ is achildren's picture book that goes beyond the ordinary. Authored and illustrated by Palestinian artist Malak Mattar, this story is an intimate reflection of her own childhood experiences in occupied Palestine. Within these pages, Malak's narrative captures the warmth and wonder that will resonate with young readers, unfolding her personal journey of rebirth as an artist during the 2014 airstrikes on Gaza.

It is a tale that goes beyond art, delving into the depths of a young girl's love for her family and her discovery of the healing power of creativity. Malak's story serves as a testament to resilience and the ability to channel fears into strength. It is a story that echoes with traumas faced by countless children in Gaza and around the world, reminding us of the universal language of hope and the enduring power of art.P IS FOR PALESTINE: A PALESTINE ALPHABET BOOK 

Golbarg Bashi & Golrokh Nafisi

Drawing inspiration from the rich history of Palestinian literature and the visual arts, Golbarg Bashi and Golrokh Nafisi’s ‘P is for Palestine’ narrates the story of the Palestine we hold dear in a simple A-B-C format. This educational, vibrant, and empowering journey is designed to shed light on the profound beauty and resilience of Palestinian culture. In its pages, the authors capture the essence of a land that is much more than a geographic location; it is a tapestry of heritage, history, and the indomitable spirit of its people.A LITTLE PIECE OF THE GROUND 

Elizabeth Laird 

In the heart of Ramallah, 12-year-old Karim Aboudi and his family find themselves in the midst of a stringent curfew imposed by the Israeli military. Confined within the walls of their home, they yearn for a taste of freedom. When the curfew is finally lifted, Karim and his friends stumble upon a hidden gem - a vast, level expanse that holds the promise of becoming the perfect football pitch. Not far from the field, they spot an abandoned car that sparks their imagination as a potential secret hideout.

However, the elation of this newfound discovery is soon tempered by the sobering reality of their situation. As the next curfew looms, the risk of being outside during military-imposed restrictions becomes a daunting presence. What unfolds when Israeli soldiers cross paths with Karim during this critical moment will shape the course of their lives in ways they could never have imagined.