Acclaimed poet Nikki Grimes and award-winning illustrator Cozbi A. Cabrera celebrate the joy of family, friends, and of feeling thankful. The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books says that Thanks a Million “offers a variety of reasons for giving thanks and feeling appreciation.” An inspirational and useful picture book that is perfect for educators, parents, and aspiring poets.

What does it mean to connect with someone? What does it mean to feel thankful? Award-winning poet Nikki Grimes and Caldecott Honor artist Cozbi A. Cabrera honor human relationships—from family to friendships to community bonds—and the moments that bring us together.

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In Jacksonville, Florida, two brothers, one of them the principal of a segregated, all-black school, wrote the song “Lift Every Voice and Sing” so his students could sing it for a tribute to Abraham Lincoln’s birthday in 1900. From that moment on, the song has provided inspiration and solace for generations of Black families. Mothers and fathers passed it on to their children who sang it to their children and grandchildren. Known as the Black National Anthem, it has been sung during major moments of the Civil Rights Movement and at family gatherings and college graduations.

Inspired by this song’s enduring significance, Kelly Starling Lyons and Keith Mallett tell a story about the generations of families who gained hope and strength from the song’s inspiring words.

Learn all kinds of playful action words—verbs!—with the help of bestselling author-illustrator Taro Gomi!

In Taro Gomi’s inimitable world, every scene brims with energy. From a bustling marketplace to a lively school to a dazzling amusement park, each illustration is filled with action. How many characters can you spot:
* Running, riding, or climbing
* Looking, choosing, or eating
* Sleeping, screaming, or reading
* Bumping, twirling, or chatting
* And, of course, laughing?

Just as in Taro Gomi's Big Book of Words, toddlers are introduced to words—this time in verb form—in unforgettable ways. Open the pages of this book to read, play, and learn!

ONE-OF-A-KIND CREATOR: From Everyone Poops to My Friends to Spring Is Here, there is no other author-illustrator quite like Taro Gomi.

REPEAT READING: Taro Gomi’s irresistible illustrations are chock-full of detail that readers will return to again and again, each time finding something new.

ENGAGING HUMOR: Every page captures countless laugh‑out‑loud moments that will make this learning resource book a fan favorite.

MAKES LEARNING FUN: The energetic images will motivate young readers to explore the exciting world around them as they learn all about action words.

Perfect for:
* Fans of Taro Gomi’s bestselling children’s books and games
* Teachers, librarians, and early-learning educators looking for fun, engaging books that teach children about verbs
* Parents, caregivers, and grandparents
* Gift-givers looking for books for children entering preschool and kindergarten
* Readers of Richard Scarry books, First 100 Words, and other popular language learning books for kids

Celebrate Black joy, family time, imaginative play, and lyrical storytelling in this must-have diverse picture book from Coretta Scott King Award winning author Nikki Grimes.

Every day is full of possibility, especially when play is your most important job. In Playtime for Restless Rascals, a loving parent gently wakes their child, and together they leap into a world of puddle dancing, leaf jumping, and big-sky dreaming. This rhythmic, high-energy story turns the ordinary into a celebration of childhood magic.

Perfect for ages 3–7, this vibrant read-aloud favorite:

* Affirms that play is a vital part of childhood, building confidence and emotional connection
* Centers Black joy and everyday love, a window into the love, support, and laughter shared between a parent and child
* Engages young readers with lyrical language and playful repetition perfect for story time
* Captivates with rich, colorful illustrations that reflect the movement and wonder of a child's day

For parents, educators, and gift-givers seeking children's books that celebrate family, imagination, and everyday childhood adventures, this book delivers moments that make childhood unforgettable ― and love unmistakable.

Praise for Bedtime for Sweet Creatures:

"A patient mother with a healthy sense of whimsy helps prepare her headstrong toddler for bed. Zunon's art takes this book to the next level: Her portrayals of the animals mentioned in the text are colorful and full of intriguing patterns and shapes. An adventurous treat of a bedtime story."―Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

"An adorable and imaginative bedtime story to add to collections for young children...children will engage with the pajama-clad tot's antics and be soothed by the book's positive tone. A fabulous interpretation of an everyday battle."―Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

Praise for Off to See the Sea

"Children will delight… This ebullient account of a common childhood experience bursts with love and universal appeal."―Booklist, STARRED REVIEW

From moments fussy to fond, Academy Award–winning filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer Tonya Lewis Lee, present a behind-the-scenes look at the chills, spills, and unequivocal thrills of bringing up baby! Featuring illustrations by Kadir Nelson, winner of the Coretta Scott King - Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement!

Go back to bed,
baby, please, baby, please.
Not on your HEAD
baby baby baby, please!

Vivid illustrations from celebrated artist Kadir Nelson evoke toddlerhood from sandbox to high chair to crib, and families everywhere will delight in sharing these exuberant moments again and again.

The #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of Stacey's Extraordinary Words and the critically acclaimed author of Take Back the Block join together to create this heartwarming, empowering celebration of Black joy!

We are joy—showing off our moves and tick-tocking to the drumbeats
of our created culture—the culture that moves the world.

We are joy—full surrounded by laughter, and light
and love, and love, and love.

Shining with lyrical prose and gorgeously vibrant art, this delightful picture book read-together is an inspiring celebration of the beauty and strength of Black culture, Black community, and Black family. It's an empowering affirmation that joy—especially black joy, is all around us—in the people we love, in our commmunities, and in our hearts.

Supermodel Winnie Harlow debuts her first picture book about a spunky, stylish little girl who learns that what makes her stand out makes her special.

Winnie is an artist and fashion is her paintbrush. She’s spent all summer designing her bold back-to-school looks: from flowers to feathers, stripes to sequins—everything has a place in Winnie’s masterpieces.

But when school starts, Winnie realizes not everyone sees things her way. Fitting in seems more important than standing out—and suddenly, her confidence starts to fade. Just when she needs it most, a heart-to-heart with her wise grandmother reminds Winnie of the beauty in being herself. With her head held high and her style shining brighter than ever, Winnie struts back to school ready to turn heads—and hearts.

Inspired by Winnie Harlow’s childhood and brought to life with dazzling illustrations by Sawyer Cloud, Simply Winnie is a vibrant celebration of self-expression, confidence, and the magic of being unapologetically you.

A First Folktale from the creators of Magnolia Flower, Zora Neale Hurston and Ibram X. Kendi, about the power of sharing.

There was a cat. And there was a dog. And only one piece of pineapple…

Find out if the two animals can overcome this conundrum in Zora Neale Hurston's humorous and charming folktale retold by #1 New York Times bestselling and National Book Award–winning author Ibram X. Kendi and illustrated by New York Times honored artist, Diana Ejaita. This accessible and sizable board book is perfect for introducing the youngest of readers to the beauty of Hurston's storytelling and will lightly teach children that everything is better shared when with friends.

A sweet and thoughtful picture book about how we all need forgiveness--even parents--from the bestselling author of Andy Johnson and the March for Justice and Josey Johnson's Hair and the Holy Spirit.

Isaiah Johnson's baseball team has made it to the championships, and he's up to bat! Most of the Johnson family is in the stands cheering him on . . . but someone is missing: Isaiah's dad.

When Dad finally shows up, he apologizes for his absence and asks for Isaiah's forgiveness. But Isaiah is still hurt and isn't sure if he can forgive.

As a dad who's made plenty of mistakes himself, Esau McCaulley has crafted a biblically informed story that offers plenty of avenues for discussion on the power of forgiveness.

Jonathan knows right from wrong. Raised in a loving Christian home, he's been taught to follow God's ways and treat others with kindness. But when the school bully, Hunter, starts pressuring him to do things he knows are wrong, Jonathan finds himself caught between wanting to fit in and staying true to who he really is.

When a new kid becomes the target of Hunter's bullying, Jonathan is faced with a life-changing decision-will he follow the crowd or stand up for what's right?

This powerful and relatable story explores the challenges kids face with peer pressure, identity, and standing firm in faith. With themes of forgiveness, redemption, and courage, readers will be inspired to choose God's way, even when it's hard.

Perfect for families, classrooms, and church groups to help children grow deeper in their walk with Christ.

Naomi has always felt different-like she doesn't belong at home, at school, or anywhere at all. No matter how hard she tries, she just can't seem to fit in.

One night, after feeling especially discouraged, Naomi drifts off to sleep and finds herself in a surprising place. There, she meets someone who reminds her of a powerful truth: God created her on purpose and for a purpose.

Through this heartwarming story, young readers will be reminded that they are wonderfully made, deeply loved, and uniquely gifted by God. Naomi's Journey encourages children to embrace who they are, stop comparing themselves to others, and discover the beauty of the gifts God has placed inside of them.

Perfect for children ages 5-12, this book is filled with hope and encouragement that will inspire kids to see themselves the way God does-special, chosen, and enough.

A perfect book for young readers to discover lesser-known events that have shaped Black history in the United States

The Stono Rebellion of enslaved people in 1739. Harriet Tubman's Combahee River raid in 1863. The Biloxi Wade-in to desegregate beaches in 1959. Throughout history, Black people have spoken up, protested, rebelled, and even risked their lives to gain equality. Celebrate little-known historic events like these and learn about their social impact on American history in Overlooked Milestones of Black History.

ABOUT THIS SERIES:

This brand-new series is rooted in a profound commitment to shedding light on some of the important -- and often lesser-known -- aspects of Black history. From the Archives features landmarks, events, people, and artistic endeavors that have played a significant role in the Black experience in America and offers a chance to celebrate them. Written in a vivid, engaging style and featuring a colorful combination of photos and illustrations, each title serves as a powerful vehicle for education, inspiration, and empowerment for young readers.

From the New York Times bestselling team behind Parker Looks Up comes a paperback bind-up of five incredible Level 1 Ready-to-Reads about Parker’s adventures.

Come along for five joyful escapades with Parker Curry! Whether she’s playing dress-up with her siblings, having fun with her best friend, growing a garden with her grandmothers, learning how to manage big feelings, or going to her first sleepover, Parker has a story sure to delight her friends just beginning to read!

This adorable paperback bind-up contains:
Parker Dresses Up
Your Friend, Parker
Parker Grows a Garden
Parker’s Big Feelings
Parker’s Slumber Party

Teach kids 3 to 5 about body boundaries, private parts, and consent with a positive and empowering picture book from pediatrician and bestselling author Dr. Krupa Bhojani Playforth!

Knowing how to talk about their bodies and establish safe boundaries with others is critical to kids' health and safety―but body safety can be a tough topic to tackle.

This friendly, illustrated picture book from board-certified pediatrician Dr. Krupa Bhojani Playforth makes it simple, with age-appropriate but accurate text and illustrations that describe the correct names for private parts, what body boundaries are, and how kids can advocate for themselves―because their body should belong to them and only them.

An essential topic for this age range―Knowing the right terms for body parts and appropriate body boundaries can improve children's body image, self-confidence, and make them less likely to be a target of abuse. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting this conversation as early as possible.

Informative but lighthearted―Introduce your child to body safety in a fun, engaging way that is never scary or too serious, but directly explains everything kids should know with a book that they'll want to read!

Make body conversations easier―Giving kids the language, knowledge, and opportunity to ask questions about bodies and consent encourages them to stand up for themselves, and to feel comfortable talking to trusted grownups.

Get the complete resource parents have been asking for to help young kids talk about their bodies confidently and correctly as they build healthy body awareness!

★ Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ Booklist, starred review

This riveting found poem for kids based on Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Street Sweeper" speech is creatively interpreted in this nonfiction picture book written by acclaimed author Alice Faye Duncan, accompanied by gorgeous artwork by award-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis.

In a speech delivered in 1967, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. provided his young audience with life lessons:
* You count.
* Black is beautiful.
* Achieve excellence.
* Make a better world.
* Believe in nonviolence.
* Keep going!

Today, award-winning author Alice Faye Duncan reinterprets King's speech as a motivational erasure poem in The Dream Builder's Blueprint, accompanied by spirited and inspired art by Philadelphia-born illustrator E. B. Lewis. Highlighting principles of excellence, activism, and compassion that remain relevant and necessary today, this book has a universal message that's ideal for parents, librarians, and teachers looking for a book that distills Dr. King's principles to a level that kids can understand.

Included in the book is an author's note that explains found poetry forms like the erasure poem and provides background information on the Civil Rights movement and Dr. King's inspiring speech at Philadelphia's Barratt Junior High School.

From the author of Oshún and Me and the artist of Homegrown comes a joyful picture book that celebrates community and individuality, inspired by real people with disabilities everywhere.

Today is the best day of the year: PARADE DAY! It’s the day that Hazel’s city is a little bit shinier, everyone’s a little bit happier, and she gets to wear her sparkliest, coolest gear to celebrate and attend the disability pride parade.

As Hazel takes readers on an eye-opening journey through her city on her way to the parade, along the way they will see the various ways in which communities can evolve to be more accessible and safe for everyone. Whether it's putting dips in the curb for people using mobility aids, facilitating the use of service animals, or installing wheelchair accessible playground equipment, there are a lot of ways our communities can be made safer and more accessible for everyone.

Also by Adiba Nelson
Oshún and Me: A Story of Love and Braids (also available in Spanish!)

Also by DeAnn Wiley
Homegrown
Double Dutch Queen

A picture book celebration of girl dads everywhere by The Dad Gang CEO, Sean Williams--now in a lower-price format!

A fun read-aloud written in upbeat rhyming verse, Girl Dad is a picture book that honors the loving men who raise, love, and uplift strong girls.

Share Girl Dad with the dads in your life, on Father's Day or any day.

Plus: Don't forget to check out Sean Williams's Boy Dad!

A Bank Street College of Education's Children's Book Committee's Best Children's Books of the Year pick!

From self-taught, award-winning director Morgan Stevenson Cooper comes a heartfelt picture book about a girl on a mission to make her first movie—and lift her grandpa's spirits along the way.

Norah Rose loves movies—action, comedy, drama—you name it! She dreams of becoming a director, but Hollywood feels a long way from home. When her grandpa falls ill, Norah decides to make a movie just for him, because no one loves a good story more than Grandpa. Armed with her mom’s phone, a head full of ideas, and the wide-open backdrop of Kansas City, Norah sets out to write, cast, shoot, and edit her very first film. There’s a lot of work ahead, but Norah’s sure of one thing: her movie is going to shine.

With a spirited how-to approach and lively artwork by Geneva Bowers, Morgan Stevenson Cooper shows young readers how creativity, heart, and a little hustle can turn any dream into a reality.

From the New York Times Bestselling author of Raising Fences and the award-winning illustrator of Mama Africa!, comes a moving and lyrical picture book about a girl navigating her parents' divorce, featuring a Black family, two homes, and whole lot of love.

Auset's parents tell her the divorce wasn't her fault, but she got split in two too. Now she has two homes, two rooms, two Christmases, and two birthday parties. It's tough to deal with her parents' divorce, but at least she has the songs of Sweet Honey and the Rock and Bob Marley to help her through. Plus, she has her therapist, and her stuffed animal Dolphie the Dolphin, who is an excellent listener.

With two loving parents doing their best, here is a look at Black families, divorce, and how difficult it is for kids to go through. But with time and support, and everyone doing their best to keep it real, there's healing and strength on the other side.

This captivating biography chronicles the remarkable journey of fashion legend André Leon Talley–from humble beginnings in rural North Carolina to the pinnacle of the international world of fashion.

Growing up in the Jim Crow South wasn't easy for young André. He escaped into the glimmering worlds he discovered inside magazines like Ebony and Vogue. He fell in love with all things French, and honed his taste for elegance and style in spite of those who judged and bullied him. Standing tall against all odds, André spun his hardships into a fashion fairytale of his own making.

With exuberant prose and luminous illustrations, this picture book biography shares the inspiring story of majestic icon André Leon Talley and his enduring legacy.

In this endearing picture book by superstar chef and beloved TV host Carla Hall, Carla’s grandmother helps her turn things around when a game of dress-up leads to a fancy tea party gone wrong.

Carla and her sister Kim love visiting their grandparents’ home, where they can always count on having something fun to get into, like Granny’s old chest full of treasures! Dressed up in mounds of beautiful dresses, sparkling jewels, and fancy gloves, Carla decides the day wouldn’t be complete without a tea party for the girls’ special guests, Granny and Doc.

But when Carla accidentally ruins her grandmother’s favorite quilt and famous pound cake, she fears that all the fun is spoiled. How can Carla and her family have a proper tea party without an elegant set up and delicious food? Then Carla’s grandmother steps in, sharing her recipe for a special cake. Will the secret ingredient help Carla save the day?

Acclaimed artist Erika Lynne Jones's author-illustrator debut picture book! A young girl named Zara would rather say she doesn't know what she wants than choose between her two grandmothers' ideas.

Zara loves living next door to her Grandma Jane and Granny Gladys, but sometimes it’s tough being stuck in the middle of them! Both her grandmas think they know what’s best for her, and Zara is worried she might upset them if she says what she really wants.

Find out what it will take for Zara to speak up for herself in this multigenerational story about finding your voice and the strength of family.

In this New York Times bestselling classic, Caldecott Medal-winning artist Kadir Nelson tells the incredible story of baseball's unsung heroes -- perfect for celebrating the centennial anniversary of the Negro Leagues!

Winner of the Coretta Scott King Author Award and Robert F. Siebert Award as well as a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor

Featuring nearly fifty iconic oil paintings and a dramatic double-page fold-out, an award-winning narrative, a gorgeous design and rich backmatter, We Are the Ship is a sumptuous, oversize volume for all ages that no baseball fan should be without. Using an inviting first-person voice, Kadir Nelson shares the engaging story of Negro League baseball from its beginnings in the 1920s through its evolution, until after Jackie Robinson crossed over to the majors in 1947.

The story of Negro League baseball is the story of gifted athletes and determined owners, of racial discrimination and international sportsmanship, of fortunes won and lost; of triumphs and defeats on and off the field. It is a perfect mirror for the social and political history of black America in the first half of the twentieth century. But most of all, the story of the Negro Leagues is about hundreds of unsung heroes who overcame segregation, hatred, terrible conditions, and low pay to do one thing they loved more than anything else in the world: play ball.

You can sparkle, shimmer, shine – just like Marsha did.

This vibrant and joyful picture book celebrates the legacy of Marsha P. Johnson, a Black trans woman and activist who played an instrumental role during the Stonewall Riots that lead to PRIDE month, written by award-winning filmmaker and artist Tourmaline.

You wouldn’t even believe the things Saint Marsha used to get up to—she had more of a zest for life than anyone I’ve ever known, and the biggest heart, too.

It’s a hot summer day and New York City is buzzing like a hive of eager honeybees. From Riis Beach to the Flower District, into the West Village and over to the Brooklyn Museum, folks young and old embrace the resolute and love-filled spirit of icon activist Marsha P. Johnson in all that they do.

Told through the eyes of an old friend and with bright, buoyant artwork, this jubilant story celebrates the indelible stamp that Marsha P. Johnson left on New York City and beyond, culminating in a powerful convergence one day in June 2020, when activists from across all five boroughs rallied loudly for Black trans lives.

The spirit of Marsha has never been more alive and present in what we do.

A tender picture book about a veteran’s PTSD and a family’s love for each other—on good days and hard days—from award-winning creators Winsome Bingham and Rahele Jomepour Bell

Momma wears combat boots, a camouflage jacket, and a U.S. ARMY tag on her chest. She is a fighter for her country’s freedom, but she is also a fighter for her family. When Momma comes home from a long deployment, however, something has changed. Our narrator, Momma’s “Baby," misses the big hugs, uniform fashion shows, and music mornings they used to share. And she really misses planting vegetables together. Now her Momma won’t even come out to the garden. But maybe, just maybe, she can bring the garden to Momma.

Missing Momma is the poignant and ultimately hopeful, comforting story of a child with a parent affected by PTSD. Sensitively written by Winsome Bingham and movingly illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell, Missing Momma beautifully reminds kids that a family’s love endures even on days that aren’t picture perfect.

Discover the life of Serena Williams―a story about challenging yourself and achieving your dreams for kids ages 6 to 9

Serena Williams is one of the most famous and talented tennis players in history. Before she became a legendary professional athlete, she was a young girl who loved reading and gymnastics and started playing tennis at three years old! In this book about Serena Williams for kids, new readers will explore how she faced discrimination, injuries, and many other challenges, but still worked hard to be the best player she could be.

Independent reading―This biography book for kids is broken down into short chapters and simple language so they can read and learn on their own.

Critical thinking―Kids will learn the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Serena's life, find definitions of new words, discussion questions, and more.

A lasting legacy―Find out how Serena's love for her family and her community inspired her to get involved with important charity work, helping people all over the world.

How will Serena's competitive spirit inspire you?

*ships in 7 - 10 business days*

A joyful picture book debut that encourages kids to take pride in themselves and know that they are loved no matter what.

Just as the stars light the entire world―
You shine.

Join a queer family as they celebrate Black Pride in Washington, D.C. From painting posters to walking in a Pride Parade with neighbors to watching fireworks, this special day is packed with fun.

Allen R. Wells’s poetic text perfectly captures the expansiveness of a parent’s love, while Dia Valle’s joyful art bursts off the page. Here are words that children in every family―no matter its color, size, or shape―need to hear.

We are so proud of you!

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In this lyrical picture book from two breakout picture book creators, a young Black child waits for—and worries about—her father while he’s away from home. A sensitive, poignant portrayal of a family’s worries, joys, and comforts, to sit alongside books by Jacqueline Woodson and Christian Robinson. Every night when Daddy gets home from work, Olivia gives him a big hug and knows that the evening will be full of love—and fun. Together, she, Daddy, and Momma will make a feast for dinner, clean up, dance to old-school tunes, and read stories. But every morning when Daddy goes to work, Olivia worries, worries, worries. Be safe, she and Momma tell him. But what if he isn’t? Sometimes other people aren’t, like the people Olivia sees on the news. Thud, thud, thud, goes Olivia’s heart. Thump, thump, thump, all through the long day, until she hears the jangle of Daddy’s keys announcing he’s home. Brittany J. Thurman’s poetic text deftly explores the day-to-day life of a young Black child and her family—their joys and their fears—with a rhythm and musicality perfect for reading aloud. Shamar Knight-Justice’s expressive artwork sings with color, texture, and warmth. Forever and Always respects the deep emotions of young readers while offering comfort and reassurance to any child waiting for a loved one to come home. For readers of Nigel and the Moon, The Year We Learned to Fly, and Saturday.

*Ships in 7-10 business days*

In a story full of style, sass, and significance, a young boy goes on a quest for the perfect Easter church outfit, inspired by elders from his community. Along the way learns about the importance of Easter traditions to his family, his ancestors, and the Black church. Elijah is on a mission to find the perfect church outfit for Easter. But when failed attempts at his town’s stores leave Elijah disappointed, an important conversation with Deacon Brown and Mother Green about tradition, culture, and clothing gives him the courage to create his own Easter masterpiece: a patchwork of perfection that tells his story with style. Families at Easter will appreciate seeing the themes of church and Black culture throughout Elijah's quest, in this sweet yet important story about a young boy's journey toward an understanding of those who came before him. An afterword from the author delves into the traditions and culture of Black communities at Easter and the historical importance and significance of Easter clothing and style.

From seed to harvest, from loom to shop, to a gift for Girma, this lyrical story of the Ethiopian Gabi is a beautiful celebration of weaving, community and culture.

Written in the cadence of The House That Jack Built, this vibrant and lushly illustrated tale pays tribute to the Gabi— a traditional Ethiopian cloth that is used to celebrate both community and culture. From the tiny seed to the fluffy white cotton, from the steady hands of the farmer to the swift fingers of the weaver, from the busy shopkeeper, to a gift for a loved one, follow the journey of the Gabi that Girma wore in this lively and rhythmic tale that’s perfect to read aloud.

Perfect for fans of The Day You Begin and Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away, author Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and illustrator Shahrzad Maydani’s Sister Friend is a heartwarming new picture book celebrating the unique joy of cultivating friendships within your cultural community.
 
Ameena feels invisible. It’s been that way since she started at her new school. But now there is another new girl in class. Ameena sees her brownness and her hijab, even though the other kids do not.
 
Ameena wants to be her friend, but she can’t seem to find the right words or do the right things. Until one day, they find them together: “Assalamu Alaikum, Sister. Welcome.”