Maya Fidawi – illustratör

It's market day for Samira and her grandma! The bazaar is crowded, but this sweet pair knows how to stick together in this silly picture book set in Iran.Mama Shamsi is off to the market, and today, Samira gets to go with her! Samira loves spending time with her grandmother, and she especially loves her chador, which Mama Shamsi wraps around herself every time they leave the house. As the pair get closer and closer to the market, Samira is worried about getting lost in the crowded streets of Tehran, until she has an idea: She can hide under her grandmother's chador. But when Mama Shamsi says no—if Samira hides under there, the pair of them will look like a strange animal! In imaginary spreads, Samira and Mama Shamsi turn into a donkey, a giraffe, a kangaroo, a turtle—hiding isn't working at all. But maybe there's some other way for Samira to stay safe with her grandma in the crowded market.

Noura is absolutely crazy about watermelon. She wants to eat it all day, every day. In her mind, there’s no such thing as too much of her favorite fruit. But when a hidden watermelon in her room starts to grow out of control, Noura is swept into a wild and imaginative adventure.Watermelon Madness is a humorous and heartwarming children’s book that explores healthy eating, food obsession, and the importance of balance. With vivid illustrations and a fun storyline, it helps kids understand the value of moderation, trying new foods, and sharing with others.This picture book is perfect for storytime, nutrition-themed lessons, or discussions about favorite foods and healthy habits. A valuable resource for parents, educators, and anyone building a collection of meaningful and entertaining children’s books.Promotes Healthy Eating Habits: Gently introduces concepts like moderation, balance, and variety in a fun and relatable way.Relatable for Young Readers: Great conversation starter for picky eaters and kids with strong food preferences.Perfect for Classrooms and Homes: Supports discussions during nutrition units, SEL sessions, and family storytime.Engaging and Imaginative: Colorful illustrations and a playful narrative that hold children’s attention while delivering a meaningful message.Supports Social-Emotional Learning: Encourages empathy, self-awareness, and sharing through storytelling.U.S. School Grade Level: Ideal for Pre-K to Grade 2 (Ages 4–7).