- Dr. Seuss
- Dr. Seuss
- Dr. Seuss
Zarina Mohideen Hizbullah is the founder principal of Hejaaz International School, Sri Lanka. Her stories are inspired by her experience with both children and parents.
Her short stories and articles have been published in several local newspapers. Wardha's Wonder Boxes is the adapted version of a short story which won the first prize at a countrywide competition organized by "Room to Read" a foundation that seeks to transform lives of children in developing countries.
My stories revolve around the lives of children. Having taught in state schools for over 20 years I retired from service and opened my own school. Throughout these years I had the opportunity to peek into the lives of children from all walks of life.
The stories that emerged revolved in my mind for days. Stories of longing locked up in little hearts, relationships with adults and with one another were waiting to be told. That was the time “Room to Read” announced a story writing competition. I submitted one of my stories. When it won the first prize I was inspired to write.
My stories are about Muslims who live in the same time as we do. The characters look and act like the readers I target. The protagonists in my stories react the way the reader would - which makes it easier for them to develop a sense of belonging and empathize with the characters in the book.
I believe that storytelling has a powerful impact and I am using it to instil Islamic values and give role models in a way that nonfiction does not. Through my stories I strive to sustain brotherhood, respect to elders, patience and prayer.
In a large amount of mainstream fiction things that are simply not allowed in Islam are normalized. Children who read this kind of fiction begin to imagine themselves in those situations. Eventually they forget that there is anything wrong with the un-islamic life styles described in that kind of fiction.
For the non-Muslim reader my stories provide a glimpse into the lives of Muslims. In an islamophobic world I strive to convey something positive about Islam.
“I was amazed by the simple yet realistic story of Wardha's Wonder Boxes, which I read to my 3 year old daughter one night and has become one her favourite bed time story books. The illustrations are captivating and intrinsically detailed which keeps the curiosity of my 3 year old alive throughout the narration”
“A must read for those who love reading to their kids”
“What do the challenges of crossing burning hot sand with an infant in the group and social mobilization to bring back flora and fauna into a concrete jungle, have in common? Children, family values and Ms. Zarina Mohideen Hizbullah”
“Amazingly insightful stories of a modern day Muslim families”
“I think the story is very interesting and it stands to its point. I also think that the illustration also gave a lot of meaning to it and made it complete. I also like the fact that it gives a very good example to all readers young and old about how Allah answers our prayers”
Hajer is curious about everything around her. She prays to Allah to increase her in knowledge. Hajer’s wish is to spend an entire morning at the beach. Uncle Yousuf agrees to take her. When it is time to get back home there is a problem. Hajer’s knowledge comes to the rescue.
Purnima Mitra, is a Bangladeshi artist who works as an illustrator, 3D artist and an interior designer. She received the Asian Art major scholarship (2012) conducted by the Korean Government to Korea National University of Arts in South Korea for a 2 year MFA program. She has exhibited her work at 32 group exhibitions in Bangladesh and different countries. She is currently working as an interior designer and language specialist.
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Wardha’s family moves out of their beautiful village, to live in the city. Wardha does not like the new environment. She wants to go back. Grandmother advises her. Wardha follows her advice and then things change.
Purnima Mitra, is a Bangladeshi artist who works as an illustrator, 3D artist and an interior designer. She received the Asian Art major scholarship (2012) conducted by the Korean Government to Korea National University of Arts in South Korea for a 2 year MFA program. She has exhibited her work at 32 group exhibitions in Bangladesh and different countries. She is currently working as an interior designer and language specialist.
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