Belquis lives in Old Sana'a, an ancient city in Yemen. An exciting writing competition is announced for her class but there's just one problem: the story is to inspire the world. Belquis is surrounded by the hardships of war and and struggle. What has she seen that is inspirational?
Under the Sana'a Skyline is a story for children and adults alike that beautifully weaves community and history with one girl's search for humanity.
ADVANCED PRAISE FOR UNDER THE SANA'A SKYLINE
"...I loved how your protagonists are two young ladies (their beautiful, historical names) and how you focused on female power and resilience through the girls, their mamma, their jeddah, and Khala Khadija ...
Well thought-out plot that depicts the suffering and challenges of the Yemeni people while highlighting the culture, heritage, nobility, and undefeated spirit! ..."
-Dr. Mona Jalloul (Educator)
The story gives the reader a feeling of contentment and fulfillment as well as renewed faith and optimism! It provides a bird's eye view of Historic Yemen but more importantly, gives reassurance that the spirit of the Yemeni people can never be defeated! -Hanan Reda (Educator/Administrator)
"Should be on every inclusive classroom library shelf." -Yousef Alqamousi (educator, author, poet)
Truly, "necessity is the mother of invention'. Our sister Salwa Mawari saw a need for her students, and when she couldn't find the resources to meet that need, she created one. She wrote our narrative in a way that not only makes our kids proud of their heritage, but highlighted the generosity, resiliency, and kindness that is rarely associated with us in the media despite these being an integral makeup of the fabric of Yemeni society. This book will undoubtedly lead to the clearing up of many misconceptions...."
-Zaid Naji (business person, activist )
"Every child deserves to pick up a book that is reflective of who they are and where they come from. This book is a must have in every elementary classroom library to honor and acknowledge Yemeni American students in our schools. Diversity is our strength and to accomplish that, we must be inclusive." - Dr. Debbie Almontaser, Educator and DEI Leader, Founder and CEO of Bridging Cultures Group.
Salwa Mawari's UNDER THE SANAA SKYLINE shows young readers a side of Yemen that is not always expressed in the news: a rich culture of vibrance, community and beauty -- but also addressing the stark reality of war that the country faces today in an age-appropriate way. This tale of resiliency will leave your heart swelling with pride for the Yemeni people -- and solidarity.
-- Malaka Gharib, author of the graphic memoirs I WAS THEIR AMERICAN DREAM and IT WON'T ALWAYS BE LIKE THIS.
It captures the readers' attention and sustains their anticipation of the climax of the story. The themes represent several aspects and slices of the Yemeni heritage and history. They also demonstrate women's thoughtfulness, leadership role, and intelligence which dispel the stereotypical depiction of Arab women. The story demonstrates unity and interdependence among the neighbors, thus showcasing the covert and overt characteristics of the culture.
--Dr. Shereen Tabrizi