Mariam's Dream

The Story of Mariam Al-Shaar

and her Food Truck of Hope

A TRUE TALE WITH

A CHERRY ON TOP

Chronicle Books

pub. 4.1.2025

44 pages

Ages 5 - 8

Author: Leila Boukarim

   Illustrator: Sona Avedikian

Character: Mariam Al-Shaar

Overview:

"Once Mariam decides to start a food business in the refugee camp where she’s spent her whole life, she must see her dream through.

She will need money.

She will need the right papers.

People will tell her it’s impossible.

They will tell her not to risk it.

But with the women of the camp behind her, she is determined to make it happen."

Tantalizing taste:

"More walls stand in her way -

walls of rules,

of injustice,

of discrimination.

But Mariam has a mission.

She has a story.

She has a team of talented women who make food

that is meant to be shared.

No wall can stop her.

And so she charges ahead."

And something more: Leila Boukarim in the Author's Note explains: "Conditions at Mariam's refugee camp are difficult, particularly for women. But in the face of darkness and hopelessness, Mariam has dedicated herself to improving life there by empowering the people, by helping them learn the skills they need to do meaningful work... Since creating Soufra, Mariam has gone on to open a preschool as well as a Soufra Cafe in Bourj Al-Barajneh!"