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

The world of books is wonderful, Nour thought, looking at the piles of books around her.
Like a galaxy full of stars. Some are shinier than others, but together they make the sky sparkle.

When their Syrian city is plagued with bombings, young Nour and her cousin Amir create a secret underground library, finding hope and escape for the people in their community within its walls. Based on the author's life and inspired by true events, Nour's Secret Library reveals the power of books to heal, transport, and create safe havens in difficult times.

• Highlights the resilience of children and the comfort of stories
• Inspired by real events and personal experience
• Perfect for young readers learning about empathy and courage

Wafa’ Tarnowska is an award-winning writer, translator and storyteller. She was born in Lebanon and has worked and lived in several countries from India, to Australia, to the UAE as well as Cyprus and Lebanon. She currently lives between the UK and Poland, writing, translating books and documentaries and offering storytelling sessions in English and Arabic. Wafa' sees herself as a cultural bridge between East and West, and has also written the award-winning The Arabian Nights for Barefoot Books.

Vali Mintzi was born in Romania and studied at the prestigious Bezalel Academy in Jerusalem. She works as an illustrator and graphic editor for the children's art magazine Einayim. In 2012 she was awarded The Israel Museum Ben-Yitzhak Award for the Illustration of a Children's Book. Her vibrant and evocative style is influenced by painters such as Bonnard, Hockney and Matisse. She has also illustrated The Girl with a Brave Heart for Barefoot Books.