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
“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
“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
“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
“In ‘Nour’s Secret Library,’ books are a refuge for a community under attack” – Wall Street Journal
“A beautifully told and illustrated story of hope and community” – The Guardian
“Books prove ‘a safe port in a sea of war’ when conflict comes to Damascus in this affecting picture book” – Publishers Weekly
“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