In this story Jude introduces us to the variety of roles that she plays in her everyday life, such as being a daughter, a granddaughter, a sister, a friend and how these roles bring joy and different experiences. This charming story encourages children to embrace their unique identities, take pride in who they are and help them to understand the value of human relationships —all while having fun and exploring what makes them special. Perfect for young readers discovering their individuality!

Related

The Complete Halazone Series

The Halazone series comprises 10 stories in a hardcover slipcase. The series follows Jude, her family and friends. Each story explores relatable themes from everyday life. With simple, easy-to-follow narratives and vibrant illustrations, these books are perfect for kids from toddlers to primary, sparking joy and imagination.

Anything

Samar and Rami spend a fun afternoon play-acting, while their mothers head to the market. When their mothers return, they bring back three amazing surprises—what could they be? Lift the flap to find out! This charming story encourages role play, an essential part of childhood development, helping children understand the world around them.

My Brother Zaid

In this heartwarming story, Jude candidly shares the frustrations and annoyances of having a younger sibling, but in the end, her love and affection for her young brother Zaid shine through. A perfect story for young readers that highlights the ups and downs of sibling relationships and the power of family bonds.

Parent and Teacher guide

The first few years of a child’s life are a journey of self-discovery. Children explore the world around them to find out who they are and where they fit in this world. “I am Amazing” is a story of self-assertion that empowers a child by defining who he/she is in relation to other people in the family. Jude marvels at how many roles she plays. She is proud to discover that she is more than just Jude. She is also a sister, a daughter, a granddaughter, a friend and much more and she celebrates with the readers what each relationship adds to her.

Questions for Discussion

• In the story Jude counts how many roles she has and says she is amazing. How many roles do you have? What makes you special in your own eyes?
• Do you like playing sports? What's your favourite sport?
• What's your favourite game to play with friends?
• Do you like helping at home? Like how Jude helps her grandmother make cakes?
• Have you ever felt sad after arguing with your siblings? What did you do to solve the problem?
• Do you like reading stories before bed? What’s your favorite story?

About the Author

Taghreed Najjar was awarded the 2021 Jordanian State Award for children Literature. She has been a several time nominee for the Astrid Lindgren award and a several-time winner and short listee of the Etisalat Prize for Arabic Children’s Literature. Her YA novel Whose Doll is This? Won the YA book of the year (2019). With a portfolio spanning 4 decades, Taghreed – a multifaceted author - writes picture books, middle grade and young adult books. Her picture books have become classics that are read and enjoyed by generations. While her YA novels have found great success in addressing difficult subjects reflecting political and cultural realities in the region. Several of Najjar’s books have been recommended by “White Ravens” and several have been translated to languages including English, Italian, Swedish, Danish, French and Turkish.

About the Illustrator

Lujaina Al-Assil studied Visual Communication and Interior Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts at Damascus University. She has been working in the field of illustration since 1969 and has also supervised the art production in several children magazines in Syria and other Arab countries. Since 2001, she has been the artistic advisor of children's books at the Syrian Ministry of Culture and has hosted six individual painting exhibitions in Syria, Jordan, France, and Italy. In addition to her art exhibitions, Lujaina has taken part and contributed in regional and international books fairs around the world and has presented several lectures and supervised many workshops in the field of children's book illustrations in Italy, Kuwait, Sharjah, Lebanon, Tunis, and Syria. Lujaina Al-Assil passed away on February 29 2024, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy.