Salma the Syrian Chef
Written by Danny Ramadan
Illustrated by Anna Bron
Published by Annick Press
All Salma wants is to make her mama smile again. Between English classes, job interviews, and missing Papa back in Syria, Mama always seems busy or sad. A homemade Syrian meal might cheer her up, but Salma doesn’t know the recipe, or what to call the vegetables in English, or where to find the right spices! Luckily, the staff and other newcomers in her Welcome Home are happy to lend a hand–and a sprinkle of sumac. With creativity, determination, and charm, Salma brings her new friends together to show Mama that even though things aren’t perfect, there is cause for hope and celebration. Syrian culture is beautifully represented through the meal Salma prepares and Anna Bron’s vibrant illustrations, while the diverse cast of characters speaks to the power of cultivating community in challenging circumstances.

Primary ISBN: 9781773213750
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older
Community Represented: Syrian/Syrian American, Various
Themes: Canadian Connection, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Food, Education & Literacy, Family Relationship: Parents, Family Separation: Living with Other Family or Friends, Welcoming by Community, Welcoming Library: Core Picture Books (Current)
Setting: Canada
Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: Immigrant
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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DOWNLOAD Lesson Plan
Source: Annick Press
DOWNLOAD Foul Shami Recipe
Source: Annick Press