Come to our *virtual* book launch at Politics & Prose!

Plus reflections on release week

What a week it has been! After almost three years of brainstorming ideas over tea in Istanbul and exchanging drafts over Whatsapp video call, MUHAMMAD NAJEM, WAR REPORTER is a real book that you can hold in your hands! Most importantly, it’s now in the hands of kids all over the country who will learn about Syria, Muhammad, and his quest to change his world.

If you’d like to hear more about that process of writing and illustrating our book together, would you sign on to our virtual book launch next Tuesday, October 11 at 6pm E.T.? That’s 1am on Wednesday in Istanbul. We’re so honored to be virtually hosted by Politics and Prose, the famous bookstore in Washington D.C. where the Obama’s do their holiday shopping.

You can find more information on the (free!) virtual event here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pp-live-muhammad-najem-nora-neus-julie-robine-war-reporter-tickets-423559536977

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There was a lot to celebrate this week, from articles in Teen Vogue and the New Arab, to over a dozen radio interviews around the US.

Julie and I also got to sign books in person at WORD in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and even left a little message from Muhammad. There might be a few copies left still if you’re interested!

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One last thing that was really meaningful this week: MUHAMMAD NAJEM, WAR REPORTER earned two starred reviews. For those not versed in the inner workings of the publishing world, a handful of trade publications grant starred reviews to their recommended books. This means a lot because it’s an acknowledgement that beyond just a compelling read that’s exciting and interesting and fun, our book is also well-crafted and well-written. We’re honored to have received these stars, first from the School Library Journal…

… and also from Horn Book Magazine.

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Finally, we just want to thank so many of you for believing in this book from the beginning, for preordering a copy (or five!), and for sharing it with so many of your friends and family.

Please do try to join us on Tuesday night at Politics and Prose if you’re able.

And until then, let’s all try to remember Baba’s advice from WAR REPORTER:

Everybody has a story.

How will you honor your own story this week?