Mariam's Dream
The Story of Mariam Al-Shaar and Her Food Truck of Hope

This 44 page biographical picture book set in the Palestinian refugee camp, Bourj Al-Barajneh in Lebanon, centers the story of Mariam Al-Shaar and her determination to start a restaurant and food truck despite the restrictions of refugees and women. Her drive and persistence leads to the creation of......more

Taking on a very complex setting and story, Leila Boukarim introduces readers to Mariam Al-Shaar, a Palestinian born in a camp in Lebanon described as brimming with despair: “Men without work. Children without schools. Women without a say.” Avedikian’s bold and colorful digital artwork stands in co......more

Mariam Dreams: The Story of Mariam Al-Shaar and Her Food Truck of Hope seems like the kind of children’s book we’ll all be writing and illustrating in the future. It’s the story of a young, Palestinian woman, who remains stateless and steadfast after multiple generations in Lebanon. The refugee camp......more

An inspirational picture book about a refugee that wanted to share her love of cooking and community by starting a food truck to serve the area. Though she faced obstacles due to her refugee status, she didn't give up on her dreams.......more