Middle East Studies Association Best Picture Book
For a moment in time, they were one: young and old, Muslim and Christian - Egyptians held hands around their cherished library in Alexandria, protecting it. It was January 2011 - in a moment that captured the hearts of people all over the world, thousands of Egypt’s students, library workers, and demonstrators surrounded the great Library of Alexandria and joined hands, forming a human chain to protect the building, chanting "We love you, Egypt!" as they stood together for the freedom the library represented. This amazing true story demonstrates how the love of books and libraries can unite a country, even in the midst of turmoil.
★ “Freedom and libraries: an essential combination...Extensive and accessible backmatter...Roth’s exuberant collages capture these heady moments, blending photos, papers and fabrics to bring the people’s positive actions and the building’s intriguing facade together in a celebration of patriotism and libraries. A stunning visual recreation of a recent historical event.” — Kirkus Reviews