Beyond Books Publishing approached me to design and illustrate a picture book with a natural, earthy, and homely aesthetic. Drawing on my expertise in crafting visually rich narratives, I created engaging illustrations that celebrate Palestinian culture, family traditions, and the significance of olive trees. Each page combines intricate details and warm tones to evoke a sense of heritage and connection, bringing the story to life in a way that resonates with readers.

The book, Sitti’s Olive Trees, follows Reema, a young girl learning from her grandmother, Sitti, about the olive harvesting season in Palestine. My illustrations highlight the beauty of storytelling and the deep cultural value of olive trees, weaving a heartfelt narrative that captures the essence of family, tradition, and the treasured olive oil they produce.

“Working with Soumbal on ‘Sitti’s Olive Trees’ has been an absolute honour. Her ability to capture the heart of a narrative, translating feelings into colour, composition, and expression, continues to inspire me. Thoughtful, structured, and deeply collaborative, she always goes the extra mile to ensure each story reaches its full potential.”

Ndaa Hassan, Author of ‘Sitti’s Olive Trees’