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“Sweet peek into Egyptian family culture that is relatable to all.”
– School Library Journal

Egyptian Lullaby

Written by Zeena M. Pliska
Illustrated by Hatem Aly
Published by Roaring Brook Press

Every night, my Ametti Fatma sings the sounds of Egypt to me as I fall asleep.

This is the Nile,
that flows through the city.
Swish, swoosh, swish.
This is the boat,
that glides on the Nile,
that flows through the city.
Swish, swoosh, swish.

Each night, a young girl’s Auntie Fatma puts her to bed, singing a lullaby filled with rich imagery of her home in Egypt. As Auntie Fatma sings, we are given a glimpse of modern Cairo, from boats making their way down the Nile to gentle calls to prayer from the mosques to young children joyfully playing soccer in the streets.

Join Zeena Pliska and Hatem Aly on a vibrant journey to Cairo in this gorgeous, layered song.

Primary ISBN: 9781250222497
Publication Date: April 2023
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Author Interview

READ a Q & A with Zeena M. Pliska