Children's Fiction Middle East
Zia’s Story
- Publisher
- Tradewind Books
- Initial publish date
- Jun 2024
- Category
- Middle East, Muslim, War & Military, Self-Esteem & Self-Reliance
- Recommended Age
- 9 to 12
- Recommended Grade
- 4 to 7
- Recommended Reading age
- 9 to 12
-
Hardback
- ISBN
- 9781990598128
- Publish Date
- Jun 2024
- List Price
- $21.95
-
Paperback / softback
- ISBN
- 9781990598142
- Publish Date
- Jun 2024
- List Price
- $14.95
Classroom Resources
Where to buy it
Description
"Take care of your mother," twelve-year-old Zia's father whispers to him just as he is arrested-never to be seen again. Soon afterward, the Russian army pulls out of Afghanistan, and the country falls into a devastating civil war.
The Taliban takes over, establishing a regime of great brutality and creating an atmosphere of fear-women are not allowed to work nor can girls go to school. Many thousands join the perilous journey to neighbouring Pakistan seeking refuge—Zia and his mother among them.
About the authors
Shahnaz Qayumi was born and raised in Kabul. Zia's Story is her first book for young people and is closely based on other Afghans and her as a refugee from war-torn Afghanistan. After fleeing Afghanistan, she found refuge in Canada. She now lives in Vancouver and teaches at Langara University.
NAHID KAZEMIis an artist, illustrator and graphic designer with a master’s degree in painting from Tehran’s University of Art. She has published more than sixty children’s books and has received awards for her illustrations in Iran as well as nominations for the Governor General’s Award and the 2020 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. Her recent publications include I’m Glad That You’re Happy, which she wrote and illustrated, and Over the Rooftops, Under the Moon by JonArno Lawson. She has also taught art and has exhibited her work in Iran, France, Italy, the UK, Lebanon and Serbia. Nahid lives in Montreal.
Editorial Reviews
"This haunting, sparely narrated novella packs a powerful punch."
The Horn Book
“(Zia’s Story) is an eye-opening and worthwhile title that will provide children aged 9-12 with much food for thought . . . (and ) would be a welcome addition for schools and public libraries. Kazemi’s somber illustrations reflect the mood of the story and are rich in detail. Highly Recommended.”
CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"This plainspoken tale, based on the author’s experiences with her son, is an important one for readers of all ages."
Publisher's Weekly
