Hazem Nassar

Amira is enjoying her favorite game, playing I-spy while swinging from a tree. She spies something green, something blue, something orange and something purple. She spies beauty all around her. But the peace and tranquillity is suddenly disrupted when a strange object hurtles through the sky. Amira struggles to open her eyes and cannot spy anything at all.

I Spy is an illustrated picture book by Hazem Nassar about the harsh realities of war. Told from the perspective of a young girl named Amira, the book follows her journey to recovery and healing following a traumatic and life-threatening event. ​ The text and illustrations convey a sense of despair and helplessness, and the imagery of Amira barely managing to open her eyes and almost letting go is deeply moving. The story transitions to a broader perspective, showing the impact of war on the wider community. ​ The illustrations show journalists and medical professionals, highlighting the role of media and healthcare workers in documenting and addressing the consequences of conflict. The presence of diverse individuals, including those in wheelchairs and children, emphasizes the widespread and indiscriminate impact of war on people of all ages and backgrounds. ​ The narrative also explores themes of resilience and hope. Despite the devastation, Amira observes the world around her, noting the colors and the return of people to their homeland.

Overall, I Spy is a poignant reflection on the impact of war, particularly on children and communities. With simple and powerful illustrations and heart-wrenching storytelling, the book captures the fragility of life, the resilience of the human spirit, and the hope for a brighter future.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: A poignant and deeply moving reflection on the impact of war on children and communities.