The Blue Scarf

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

An inspiring refugee story about cultural identity, being true to oneself, and finding a new home.

Layla lives in a beautiful blue world. One day, her mother gives her a gift—a blue scarf that Layla lovingly wears around her neck. But when a gust of wind carries the scarf away, Layla sets out to find it, traveling by boat to various worlds of different colors. But her scarf is nowhere to be found. Eventually, Layla lands at the shores of a Rainbow world and discovers the secret of her lost scarf while also finding a welcoming new home. A beautiful and poignant refugee story about identity, emigration, and acceptance told by Mohamed Danawi and brought to life in gorgeous color by illustrator Ruaida Mannaa.

About the Author

Mohamed Danawi is an illustrator, college professor, and founder of Illozoo, a visual communication agency, representing artists from around the world. He left Lebanon at age 18 during the civil war to start a new life in Canada then the United States. He currently lives in Savannah, Georgia. This is his first children's book. 

Ruaida Mannaa is a Colombian/Lebanese Illustrator and Designer. Her background includes several design projects as well as experience as a Digital Design professor. She grew up in a multicultural family, surrounded by different languages, loud parties, and delicious food! So culture and cultural exchange are her greatest inspiration. Ruaida graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a Master of Fine Arts in Illustration. She currently works with clients all over the world.