"In class, Mrs. Haugen asks all the children
to share three facts about themselves.
When it is Kanzi's turn, she says bravely,
"I am Egyptian. I love to swim. I love to
write poetry!" Then she sits, looking
down at her desk."
It's Kanzi's first day of third grade in a new school in a brand-new country. She is apprehensive, as one might expect when facing something new and missing something old and familiar. As she readies herself for this new experience, she carefully folds the quilt her Teita (grandmother) made for her before leaving Egypt. She packs her poetry notebook in her backpack before sharing breakfast with her family.
Upon arrival at school Kanzi joins her classmates in the day's activities. When her mother brings her purposely forgotten lunch, Kanzi is hurt by the callous classmates who make fun of her language. A reassuring teacher helps; Kanzi does her best not to be 'different' the following day. When Mrs. Haugen finds her dropped notebook and reads Kanzi's poem about her grandmother's quilt, she is impressed and asks if Kanzi would like to bring the quilt to school.
What follows is lovely, inspired by a caring teacher and eager classmates.
Artwork by Anait Semirdzhyan adds the warmth of acceptance and support in images that are emotional and reassuring. The quilt provides a bright spot and comfort for a little girl navigating a new world. This is a story that encourages each of us to learn about another culture, making it easier it is to accept and honor our differences.
A glossary of Egyptian words is included.
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