Bullies are depicted as faceless shadows, emphasizing the importance of discounting what they say…Triumphant and true” - Kirkus (Starred Review) “This sensitive representation of family relationships that provide a loving coat of armor against the world’s difficulties is memorable and inspiring. I’ve seen the struggle of those who try to block these hurtful words and cease any given power to them, and that was one of the reasons I gave the mockers in the book an insignificant non-solid visual presence. Unfortunately, the hijab provokes some people to find reasons to say hurtful things about those who wear it and their faith. I thought about how proud my mother looked when she put on a pattern she liked. Trying to keep them straight as a result of my super speed or time travelling was always difficult, and they were always wavy! These memories as a child helped with how the fabric feels and moves, and how it could blend with surroundings. At times, they seemed like waves when I ran with them or wore them as capes. I played with them plenty as a child, and sometimes I’d help my mother put them on. I grew up in a home with colorful scarves around with all sorts of beautiful materials, textures, and sizes.

I remember reading the manuscript for the first time and going silent in awe I was taken by the beautiful writing. As an Egyptian-born Muslim illustrator, how did you connect to the themes on a personal level? We’d love to hear more about your journey while illustrating this important book. We caught up with Hatem about how he connected with the book on a personal level and the illustrations that brought this powerful book to life. Since its publication, it has received abundant praise from reviewers including starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and School Library Journal, and quickly earned a spot on the New York Times Best Sellers List. Ali, The Proudest Blue is an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are. Written by Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K.

It has been an especially busy year for Bright artist Hatem Aly! We were thrilled to chat with Hatem about his creative process behind his latest picture book, The Proudest Blue, which published with Little, Brown Books for Young Readers in September 2019. As 2019 comes to an end, we reflect on all of the wonderful projects that have published over the last twelve months.

Book the proudest blue