Beirut: Luqoom, a boutique publishing house known for its beautiful picture books, has announced the launch of its latest title, *The Little Boy Who Lost His Joy*, written by Luqoom founder Racha Mourtada and illustrated by Dania K.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the story begins in black and white, with Squirrel feeling down about forgetting where he buried his acorns. His search brings him to a Little Boy who has also lost something important: his joy. Together, they explore the forest and find joy and acorns in unexpected places, as the illustrations transform into a colorful scene.
The book's inspiration came from two ideas that intertwined: a fact about squirrels and an image of a boy who seemed sad. Mourtada explains the story's message, hoping it will encourage readers to find joy in everyday life, especially during challenging times.
In a first for Luqoom, the book uses Dyslexie, a font designed to help individuals with dyslexia. Luqoom aims to make its books more accessible to all children.
Luqoom will launch the book at Salon Beyrouth in Hamra. The event will include a book signing, reading, and a children's workshop on sculpting paper acorns. Guests will enjoy treats themed around joy and nuts.
The book will be available in Beirut bookstores in mid-May, with distribution in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to follow. It has already been acquired by a Korean publishing house.