Books
The Fig Tree
Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan USA
June 2025
In The Fig Tree, war separates two sides of an island, and a solitary tree brings together two children across the divide, in this touching picture book about peace, community, and forgiveness.
On the sunny island of Cyprus, a tall and lonely fig tree stands. Her fruit ripens, yet no one comes to share it. Years of fear and division have split the island in two, leaving her in the middle, alone. She remembers the conflict that tore her people apart, but she also remembers the warm days before, when laughter and friendship knew no boundaries.
Yet, with changing seasons comes renewed hope, and the old tree dreams of a future where sharing summer’s first figs might mend those broken bonds.
In this heartwarming picture book the shadows of the past give way to a bright future where children put aside fear and distrust to discover that the simple act of sharing can bridge the deepest rifts.
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Tomatoes in My Lunchbox
Roaring Brook Press/Macmillan USA
June 2022
A child, newly arrived in another country, feels displaced, lonely, and a little scared on her first day of school. Her name doesn't sound the way she's used to hearing it. She knows she doesn't fit in. And when she eats her whole tomato for lunch, she can feel her classmates observing her—and not quite understanding her.
But sometimes all it takes is one friend, one connection, to bring two worlds together, and gradually the girl, her tomato, and her full name, start to feel at home with her new friends and community.
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A moving picture book from about the first day of school, layered with themes about the immigrant experience and the universal experience of feeling out of place
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"[A] beautifully told and illustrated story that expresses, with sensitivity and inspired use of figurative language, a child’s attempt to fit with the dominant culture—a common experience that will resonate with many readers and inspire empathy in others." —Kirkus, starred review
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"An excellent choice for back to school and “new kid” picture book collections. This will resonate with many readers." —School Library Journal, starred review
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"[S]ensitively articulated... [with] lushly wrought illustrations" —Publishers Weekly, starred review
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Accolades
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A Kirkus Best Book 2022 - 'Most Empowering'
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A Bookstagang Best Book 'Future Classic' 2022
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Sunday Morning with Rodney Lear 'Recommended Summer Reading List' 2022
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An Ezra Jack Keats Writer Award 2023 finalist
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SSYRA Jr Award 2023-2024 finalist
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A Sunday Morning Magazine with Rodney Lear 'Best of the Best from Past 10 Years' selection 2023
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2023-2024 Chickadee Award finalist
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2023-2024 FLA Children's Book Award