Children in Our World: Culture and Diversity

Marie Murray (Author)

Marie Murray has lived and worked in several places around the world while pursuing studies in international politics. She began writing children’s stories as a way to observe the world with fresh eyes and a good dose of humour. Originally from New Jersey, Marie now lives in the mountains of Lebanon with her family where she receives daily visits from a growing number of stray cats.

Hanane Kai (Illustrator)

Hanane is obsessed with colours, textures and lighting. What she loves doing the most is creating worlds where the tactile melts with the digital. Her favourite colour is turquoise, and Hanane loves tea, cooking, and gardening - she dreams of a turquoise plant.

Based in Lebanon, Hanane first ventured off as a Graphic Designer (with a BA degree from NDU), then pursued her passion for illustration, photography and miniature set design. She expresses herself through the visuals she creates, and hopes with every illustration to touch her audience, leaving them with a certain feeling or message. In 2016, Tongue Twisters, written by Fatima Sharafeddine and illustrated by Hanane Kai, won the prestigious Bologna Ragazzi New Horizons award, which celebrates excellence in children’s publishing in developing countries.