Nour's Secret Library

"A beautiful and poignant coming-of-age book . . . Based on the author's and illustrator's personal experiences, this unique war story is full of hope and resilience that shines through even the worst of situations" - School Library Journal, starred review

"A beautifully told and illustrated story of hope and community" - The Guardian

"As their city is ravaged by war, two children and their community create an oasis of hope amid the destruction . . . A warm, engaging, and informative book that's a valuable addition to children's literature about war and conflict" - Kirkus Reviews

"Books prove 'a safe port in a sea of war' when conflict comes to Damascus in this affecting picture book" - Publishers Weekly

"In 'Nour's Secret Library, ' books are a refuge for a community under attack" - Wall Street Journal

"Inspired by a true story and the author's own childhood experience, Nour's Secret Library conveys the comfort and hope books and libraries offer in times of struggle" - Anne Thompson, A Library Lady

"This dual story--one of destruction, and one of preservation and hope--focuses on the importance of reading during war and the cultural role of libraries and knowledge, especially during times of crisis" - The Horn Book Magazine

"This picture book tells the story, inspired by reality, of Syrian cousins who salvage books from bombed buildings and create a secret library in a basement, which offers a refuge from war. Lyrically told and attractively illustrated, it is a celebration for book lovers anywhere" - Sunday Times