Scholastic scoops 'gorgeous' Eid picture book

Scholastic UK has signed The Most Exciting Eid, a celebratory picture book written by the "very talented" author and illustrator duo, Zeba Talkhani and Abeeha Tariq.

Scholastic UK acquired world rights for the text directly from Talkhani and world rights for the illustrations by Tariq from Alice Sutherland-Hawes at ASH Literary.

"The story begins the night before Eid," the synopsis explains. "Safa is very excited; she loves drawing henna patterns on her hands, decorating her home and munching on biryani, kebabs and samosas. It is the perfect day. Then the best part comes: she gets to open her presents. She is given a shiny pink bicycle. The only thing is she absolutely doesn’t want to share with her cousin, Alissa. 

"As her mum takes her on an adventure to gift delicious Eid treats to their neighbours, Safa realises how wonderful it is to make others happy and wants to make it up to Alissa. After all, what makes Eid exciting is sharing special moments with the people we love."

The book also includes a non-fiction spread about the Muslim celebration, including its traditions, food and greetings. 

Fiz Osborne, editorial director of illustrated books at Scholastic, said: “We are so proud to bring together two very talented creators and publish their gorgeous debut picture book. Zeba and Abeeha have created a wonderful world full of feeling.”

Talkhani is the author of My Past Is a Foreign Country: A Muslim Feminist Finds Herself (Hodder & Stoughton), which was praised in the Times, Vogue, and Stylist. This is her first children’s book.

Tariq is a Pakistani-Irish freelance illustrator and teacher, currently based in the UK. She was shortlisted for the FAB Prize in illustration.

“I’m so excited to be publishing my first children’s book with Scholastic," Talkhani said. "It was a pleasure to write Safa’s story and to see it come to life with Abeeha Tariq’s brilliant illustrations.”

Tariq added: “I’m so excited to have worked on The Most Exciting Eid as my debut picture book with Scholastic! I loved bringing Safa, her family, and the colourful celebration of Eid to life.”