"I remember as a child reading and watching my yama (mom) read. I would check out all the Nancy Drew novels for my yama from school. She learned English through her children and popular television programs at the time. I was inspired by her determination to learn as a new immigrant. I didn't see myself in mainstream children's books as a child. Frankly, I never asked why until I had children of my own. My yama and children have inspired me to write and I want to share our lived experience."

Safa Suleiman

A first-generation American Muslim of Palestinian descent, Safa Suleiman was born and raised in Denver, Colorado. She has a master’s degree in public policy and taught undergraduate courses in history, political science and liberal education for fourteen years. She has been active in the American Muslim community and currently works as a part-time elementary school substitute teacher and writer.  She lives in Colorado Springs with her husband, three kids and one cat.

Safa is represented by Ana Crespo of East West Literary Agency and is a member of the Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).