HBKU Press announce Qatari author finalist in 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press newly released children’s book, ‘The Firefly’ a finalist in the Children’s Picture Book category of the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards by the first-time Qatari children’s author, Ameera H. Al-Naemi.

The ‘ Firefly’' was selected as a finalist because it successfully highlights the selflessness of charity to children, teaching them an important lesson on how to positively contribute, even in the smallest way, to the global community.

“We are extremely proud to be able to provide a publishing platform that recognizes the literary value and important messages of our books and authors from around the world,” explains Bachar Chebaro, Executive Director of HBKU Press. 

 “This type of recognition is sure to increase a book’s visibility and readership internationally and helps HBKU Press participate in cross-cultural communications in a global context.”

 In its fourteenth year of operation, the award was established to honor the most exceptional independently books published each year across 70 different categories. The award was presented by Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group in cooperation with Marilyn Allen of Allen O'Shea Literary Agency. 

The story follows Ibraheem, a young boy who wants for nothing in his life as his little corner of the world is safe and sound filled with the love of his two parents. His only heartache comes from his inability to understand his parent’s benevolent charity work. Putting his own needs before others, Ibraheem urges his mother to stay with him instead of traveling the world to help others and spending time away from him. He does not believe that a person can single-handedly make a difference, and would rather enjoy being in his mother’s presence all the time at home.

But, through the light of a firefly, Ibraheem comes to terms with the fact that maybe, just maybe, small acts of charity do make a difference in the world. 

Al-Naemi was inspired to write this book through her own experience working with many International Humanitarian Organizations to bring about invaluable change.

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