Dear New Friend - by Taraneh Matloob (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A boy writes a letter to a friend inviting him to visit his Pers ian family and telling him what to expect"--

Book Synopsis

A young Persian boy extends a welcoming invitation to a friend to visit his home in the hopes of finding friendship and acceptance

A young boy invites a new friend to visit his house by writing a letter describing what to expect during the visit. As readers, we learn of the customs, foods, and traditions of this Persian family. The boy is clearly hoping for friendship and acceptance in this charming story in which he describes his family, games they will play, crafts they will do, and foods they will eat. This welcoming picture book will provide a wonderful opportunity for reflection about our own lives and the lives of others we may know and promote friendship between people with different cultural backgrounds.

Review Quotes

"A Persian child welcomes a guest . . . readers, especially those unfamiliar with Persian traditions, will feel lovingly embraced, as though they, too, are being invited to enjoy Grandma's walnut cookies or to flick a marble of their own. Filled with symmetric floral details reminiscent of Persian rugs, the stylized illustrations make sumptuous use of blue. An especially arresting spread shows outstretched hands intertwined with budding flowers and birds--a tribute to Dad's weaving. The child shares a Persian aphorism: "A well-made carpet becomes more good-looking as the years go by." Sumptuous art is paired with spare text, while backmatter on Persian words and rugs and an author's note provide a neat coda. A warm and most welcome invitation."

-- "Kirkus Reviews" (12/14/2024 12:00:00 AM)

"The intricate patterns and bold colors of Persian design are woven into the illustrations of this moving tale about crosscultural connection. A boy envisions what he and his new friend will do on his friend's first visit to his house; he looks forward to sharing elements of his Persian culture. Absent anxiety, this picture book provides an example of how new cultures and experiences should be approached: with respect and joy."

-- "Foreword Reviews" (3/1/2025 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Taraneh Matloob is an associate professor of children's literature specializing in creative writing and multicultural children's literature, at the University of Northern Iowa. Taraneh has published five picture books in Persian. Dear New Friend is her first book written and published in English. Her stories appeal to fans of social, cultural, and emotional representation in picture books. She also serves on the Outstanding International Books (OIB) committee of the US Board on Books for Young Children. Taraneh was born in Tehran, Iran, but now makes her home in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Alida Massari is an Italian artist specializing in illustration for children including picture books and other children's publishing. Alida was born in Rome, where she studied art at the European Institute of Design. She finds inspiration for her work from the architectural details of historic buildings, folk traditions, and ancient art. She describes her work as "modern but with ancient influences." She has illustrated many books, collaborating with Italian, English, German, and American publishers. Her books have been published in numerous countries. She lives and works in Rome, Italy. Follow her on Instagram @alidamassari.