Oni Press has announced Yalla!, a middle-grade graphic novel from debut writer Ameen D.B. and illustrator Ismael Hernández, which they plan to publish next June. What’s unique is that it’s not written in English, it’s in Arabic, but is aimed at English readers.
Pre the press release: “While the book is not in English—fear not! By joining along with Pada, readers will encounter a new place and language, all while learning a new Arabic word or phrase in each chapter.” Which allows me to use one of my favorite words here, “edutainment” — enjoy the story, learn a little Arabic along the way. Also, based on the preview pages, it looks like it’ll at least partially be told in English, so don’t be too intimidated.
“Ahlan wa sahlan and welcome everyone to the magical world of Yalla!—a graphic novel for early readers that teaches literacy and empathy in new ways,” said Ameen D.B. “Across four stories, we experience a strange new world like an immigrant, like 10-year-old Pada . . . all without the help of any subtitles! But don’t be scared—through context clues, we arrive at understanding alongside Pada and her gang of friends. So strap on your boots, tighten your swimsuits and come with Pada as we explore her new home together. Yalla!”
The story centers on Pada, who has recently immigrated to a strange new place with her family, as she navigates an unfamiliar world, She encounters a monstrous bird, a hungry troll, a no-face fisherman and a three-hundred-foot mythical lizard monster along the way.
Take a look inside:
“Yalla! is a love letter for childhood inside us, despite living in a harsh adult world,” said Hernández. “And it’s also about hope for the power of kind words . . . even if you don’t understand them at first!”
Yalla! arrives in stores June 9 of next year.