My Olive Tree

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

In this simple, touching picture book about the healing power of a loving community, a girl's grandpa and her neighbors help her grow an olive tree in a war-torn land.

Salam's grandpa says that olive trees are strong and that their roots run deep in their Palestinian land. They connect everyone--from the farmer who presses the olives into oil to the baker who uses the oil in his taboon.

Salam plants her own seed and is eager to see it grow. She waits... she waters... she asks the seed to hurry... until finally...a sprout! But one day soldiers come and destroy everything in their path...including Salam's new olive tree. Salam is crushed--though she doesn't have to worry. Her grandpa gathers their neighbors and, together, they plant olive trees as far as the eye can see. 

With spare, sensitive prose and gentle illustrations, debut author-illustrator Hazar Elbayya delivers a powerful story about the beauty of the olive tree and the importance of community in the face of hardship.

About the Author

Hazar Elbayya’s work is heavily influenced by her Palestinian roots. Born in Gaza, she recently was awarded a degree in Graphic Design from George Mason University. My Olive Tree is her debut.

Author Residence: Washington, DC

Author Hometown: Gaza, Palestine