When we think of World War I or World War II soldiers the main images that come to mind are of young, white, male soldiers of English or American nationality. Mainstream media has for decades depicted the quintessential victim and hero of war as just that. In recent years, women have also begun to appear as vital in the war effort. But there are still few and limited stories of people of colour involved in the wars. This book will re-examine our historical past and bring a new dimension to the history taught. It will inspire a whole generation of Muslim and ethnic minorities to feel that they belong in the West in a more fundamental level. The publishing of this book will also enable the Muslim diaspora (especially next gen) to reconnect with their family histories where there is a growing interest in reconnecting with the past and feel more included in the countries they call home. There is no children's book on the market like this.
With simple, uni-directional dialogue and captivating illustrations, this story is a poignant reminder that this "great-grandpa" is only one of the millions of fallen, forgotten or even ignored heroes of the World Wars and that soldiers come in many different shades. We believe this book will resonate with parents as well as elder children who may read to their siblings. On top of the social unrest, with the recent release of the Commonwealth War Grave Report, this has become a political issue. It would be a great opportunity to reach out to Ethnic Minority MPs in the UK as well as congress people and community leaders in the US who have an international presence who would be sure to support this book.