Maryam The New Yorker: Meets an Ecuadorian Friend at the Unisphere

by Salma Waly, Salma Waly

This series is inspired by the adventures of Maryam, an American multiracial child who lives in Queens, New York. It highlights the diversity and multiculturalism of the City of New York by focusing on Maryam's encounters with children who come from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Each book takes place in one of the many beautiful parks in the city.
The goal of the series is to help children understand that there are many more similarities that exist between people than differences. They also learn about different cultures and immigrant communities that call this unique and vibrant city home.
In this book, Maryam goes to Flushing Meadows Corona Park with her parents and baby sister Emmy. Her typical family outing in the park is soon transformed into a beautiful multicultural playdate with Maria. When the two girls and their families start sharing food and stories, Maryam realizes the beauty of friendship that transcends cultural barriers.

34 pages, Hardcover

Published April 5, 2021

Reviews

[Salma Waly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was inspired to write this book because of the beautiful diversity I am surrounded by in the Big Apple. Children in this city are unique. They are open to different people and cultures. They are more understanding of differences, in general. I hope this tale of friendship inspires you to learn more about people who might look different than you. I also hope it gives you a feel of how lovely NYC is in the summer!