Abdullah's Bear Needs a Name!

Yasmin Hanif is a Scottish-Pakistani author, poet and educator from a Muslim background. She worked on the 'We Can Be Heroes' project which tackled the lack of diversity in children's literature and won several awards including the Scottish Awards for Minority Ethnic Educators, the Aspiring Writers Award and The Scottish Education Curriculum Innovation Award. Yasmin's debut picture book Abdullah's Bear Needs a Name! is inspired by this project. Yasmin lives in the west of Scotland. Sophie Benmouyal was born in Canada to a French-Canadian mother and a Moroccan father. She is a children's book illustrator and graphic designer based in Montreal, Canada. She has two young daughters, a love of the outdoors and a compulsive children's book buying habit.

'A charming and important entry encouraging the joyous celebration of cultural heritage.'-- Kirkus Reviews'Beautiful... From the very first page, readers see a proud Muslim family celebrating their culture joyously. It's a delightful story about strengthening identity, with warm illustrations.'-- Inclusive Books for Children'A brilliant debut picture book from Glasgow talent Yasmin Hanif. A sweet and important book about recognising that it's okay and good to use names from your own culture.'-- Maisie Chan, author of Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths'A beautiful and necessary book. It is wonderful when Scottish children from all cultural backgrounds see themselves reflected in stories...This gorgeous picture book is an encouraging step on that journey.'-- Kids' Literature Scotland'This story celebrates the importance of cultural heritage and shared traditions. The book is illustrated strongly throughout, capturing the closeness of the family as they celebrate. The warmth within it will resound with all young readers.'-- Books for Keeps 'A sweet book that showcases the passing down of mementos and the importance of a name.'-- YA Books Central'Cultural insights accompany a picture book story of growth, discovery and family connection. Excellent pictures add attraction to the thought-provoking tale.'-- Midwest Book Review'A story with roots in culture but also the universal aspect of growing up, having to label things you identify with and love, and recognizing your family's role in your life.'-- Kids Book Buzz'A heart-warming story of family, belonging and the wonderful legacy left behind by previous generations.'-- Sarah Broadley, Writer and Reviewer'The illustrations are wholesome and make you feel at home with Abdullah's family. This is a beautiful book that has a lovely message of belonging and knowing you are important.'-- The Reading Spark (Instagram)'A gorgeous, inclusive story.'-- Mum of Boys Northeast (Instagram)'A great reminder that everyone's name, family, and history is important. Muslim culture is showcased throughout the book allowing Muslim children to see themselves, while others are encouraged to learn more.'-- Kids Read the World (Instagram)'Thoughtful and gentle. The story celebrates diversity in a warm, accessible way.'-- Teaching from Text (Instagram)'A powerful, lighthearted, fun, and creative read! This beautiful book highlights the importance of representation.'-- Murray's Miraculous Mission (Instagram)'This is a really lovely story all about identity and connection with heritage. A little gem of a book!'-- Books for Little Bookworms (Instagram)'A beautiful story that celebrates culture and traditions.'-- Cultivating Brilliant Minds (Instagram)