Synopses & Reviews
Habibi (Arabic for "my darling") is a camel who usually seems to enjoy his work, giving rides to children. But one day Habibi lies down and absolutely will not get up. "What's the matter?" asks Ahmed, Habibi's owner. Could it be a toothache? A tummy-ache? Habibi isn't telling, but a trip to the Bazaar solves the problem and leaves both Ahmed and Habibi happy. Inspired by a real-life camel and driver Betsy Lewin met in Egypt, this frolicsome new picture book will delight any child.
Review
"This has the pace of a good read-aloud, as Habibi trots through the bazaar." The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
About the Author
Betsy Lewin has illustrated more than thirty books for children. Recognized for her lively style and whimsical, often comical characters, Betsy says she loves illustrating for children -- that it is how she can best express her love of drawing and sens of humor. Traveling extensively to research the subjects of her books. Betsy and her husband, Ted Lewin, also an illustrator, visit places around the world to observe animals in their natural habitat. Her book Chubbo's Pool was based on her personal encounters with a selfish hippo in Botswanan's Okavango Delta. While in Egypt, Betsy met a camel driver and his camel, who inspired her Clarion title, What's the Matter, Habibi? When they are not traveling, the Lewins live in Brooklyn, New York.