WINNER 2020 Middle East Book Award (Middle East Outreach Council)
"This story could work effectively as a readalone or a readaloud, and it feels as much like folklore as narrative nonfiction." - BCCB ★ STARRED REVIEW
"The message of resilience and generosity will resonate with all ages." - New York Post
"The power of one person's kindness and commitment to others is a potent message." - School Library Journal
"Alaa's story is one of faith in humanity, the power of compassion and the benefits of altruism... At the book's conclusion, readers are sure to be eager to help, their own hearts bursting with happiness, making Alaa's love multiply even further still." - Shelf Awareness ★ STARRED REVIEW
"A safe, sobering, and hopeful introduction to the crisis in Syria." - Booklist ★ STARRED REVIEW
"A beautifully told and illustrated story that offers a unique perspective on both war and humanity." - Kirkus ★ STARRED REVIEW
Latham and Shamsi-Basha pick out the glimmers of light that make up Alaa's story, and Shimizu portrays their beauty. - Publisher's Weekly ★ STARRED REVIEW
