This beautiful Muslim-Filipino children's book is a collaboration between myself (the publisher), the author Hanna Usman, and illustrator Marianne J. Palita. The book is hardcover, 8x10 inches. The first 100 orders come with a signed bookplate from the author.

Story Summary:
In Jalal’s small village, everyone celebrates the bounty and beauty of their vast lake. Everyone, that is, except Jalal. Jalal doesn’t notice the lake, its bounty, or his people’s wishes. His only desire is to own the magical, puffy clouds in the sky. When strange men come to the village and offer to grant his wish, Jalal finally learns what the lake means to his people.

Praise for JALAL AND THE LAKE:

“A short, sweet cautionary tale, brimming with character.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“JALAL AND THE LAKE leaps from the page in the rich, royal colours of Meranaw culture. Hanna Usman has put a clever, modern sting to the magical tale of a boy who yearns for the clouds.”
—Candy Gourlay, author of BONETALK

“Hanna Usman shines as an author in this debut, and Marianne Palita’s vibrant illustrations feel cinematic!”
—Lynnor Bontigao, author-illustrator of SARI-SARI SUMMERS

“JALAL AND THE LAKE not only highlights the unique culture of the Meranaw, but also their strong sense of community and connection to the environment.”
- Xi Zuq, author of SUPREMO (Winner of the 2016 Philippine
National Children’s Book Award)

“JALAL AND THE LAKE offers a window into the Meranaw, a culture and language not often represented in Philippine children’s literature.”
- Malaka Gharib, Filipino Egyptian American author of
IT WON'T ALWAYS BE LIKE THIS