Dear readers,
With heavy hearts, our attention is drawn to the pressing conflicts and humanitarian crises unfolding in Palestine and Israel. In light of current tragedies, I feel called to pause my originally planned content, and instead share stories from Palestinians and Israelis.
My hope is that by uplifting these diverse voices through impactful children’s books, we can spread empathy and understanding on all sides. Stories have such power to open hearts, bridge divides, and lead us to justice and peace.
I appreciate you joining me as I share this carefully curated collection of impactful stories that spotlight modern Palestinian experiences and Israeli culture.
While these stories hold sadness, my prayer is that they ultimately affirm our shared humanity and interconnectedness. May we persist in seeking justice, while also finding moments of joy and magic – especially with our little ones.
Thank you for being part of this community and journeying with me towards greater wisdom and compassion. Wishing you light and peace today.
Children’s Books that Honor Palestinian Culture
Homeland My Father Dreams of Palestine by Hannah Moushabeck
This picture book shares a family passing down cherished memories of Palestine through a father’s magical bedtime stories. A heartwarming cross-generational tale depicting the loving bonds of diaspora. (ages 4-8)
Ida in the Middle by Nora Lester Murad
This engrossing middle grade novel follows a 14-year-old Palestinian American girl, transported to experience life in Palestine after eating gifted olives from her family’s homeland. An imaginative tale exploring identity, culture, and belonging. (ages 8-12)
Baba, What Does My Name Mean? by Rifk Ebeid
In this vibrant picture book, a young refugee named Saamidah goes on a lyrical journey with her father to uncover the meaning behind her name and connect with her Palestinian heritage. (ages 4-8 )
Wishing Upon the Same Stars by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman
This impactful middle grade book depicts an Arab American girl struggling to fit in when she moves to Texas, until she bonds with her Israeli American neighbor. Their friendship is tested when tensions arise between their families. (ages 8-12)
This artistic picture book illustrates a brave young Palestinian girl finding hope through painting amidst military attacks in Gaza. Based on the author’s own childhood. (ages 4-8)
A Little Piece of Ground by Elizabeth Laird
Set in conflict-ridden Ramallah, this eye-opening middle grade novel spotlights 12-year-old Karim, a Palestinian boy desperate for freedom from curfews to play football with friends. But after venturing out, Karim faces grave peril when caught by soldiers during the next lockdown. Elizabeth Laird pens an unforgettable human tale. (ages 8-12)
This collection will continue to grow as I research and discover new impactful books. My hope is that these stories will open hearts and minds on all sides, so we may play a role in cultivating understanding, empathy, and peace. Please check back as more recommendations are added. By reading diversely, we take steps towards a kinder world.
Fostering Connection with Israeli Children’s Literature
A Concert in the Sand by Rachella Sandbank & Tami Shem-Tov follows a grandma and grandson who encounter the newly formed Israel Philharmonic gathering for their inaugural performance. (ages 4-8)
Pickled Watermelon by Esty Schachter follows reluctant 11-year-old Molly navigating surprises on a 1986 summer trip to Israel to visit unfamiliar family. (ages 8-12)
Beni’s War by Tammar Stein follows 12-year-old Beni coping when his brother goes to war during Israel’s 1973 Yom Kippur conflict. As Beni and his family flee bombings, he struggles to aid the war effort and learns difficult lessons about dignity and humanity. (ages 8-12)
The Miracle Seed by Martin Lemelman is an inspiring graphic novel that tells the thrilling true story of how two scientists brought the extinct Judean date palm back to life. After ancient seeds are uncovered, Drs. Sallon and Solowey persevere in a decades-long experiment to resurrect this lost plant intertwining world history, science, and vibrant artwork in a tale of hope and determination against impossible odds. (ages 8-12)
Too Far From Home by Naomi Shmuel is a poignant middle grade novel. Meskerem, an Ethiopian Israeli girl, moves to a new town and faces prejudice from classmates unfamiliar with her heritage. With the help of her grandmother, Meskerem finds inner strength by embracing her multicultural identity, spanning Ethiopian, Israeli, and American cultures. An eye-opening tale for ages 8-12.
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