Tuesday 21 / May / 2024
Muscat: Shahad Nasr Al Wahaibi has unveiled her debut children’s book, ‘Laila Has Stripes’, an enchanting tale that explores the beauty of diversity and acceptance. Set to become a part of modern Omani literature, the remarkable book delivers a powerful message to young readers and adults alike.
The story revolves around Laila, a young girl with unique stripes on her skin, which sets her apart from others.
When her family moves from farm-life to living in the bustling city, Laila discovers that being different leads to being perceived in various ways. ‘Laila Has Stripes’ follows her journey of self-acceptance, the unwavering support from her parents, and leaves readers with a profound reflection on making life better for those like Laila.
With an educational background in Finance, Shahad Nasr al Wahaibi has skillfully combined her love for words with her passion for shaping young minds. “I use numbers to see the future in the corporate world, but words are my tool to shape the minds of our future generation. That’s why I chose to write children’s books,” Shahad explained.
The author envisions ‘Laila Has Stripes’ as the first installment in a captivating series, with seven more stories already brewing in her creative mind. The overwhelmingly positive response since the book’s announcement has fueled Shahad’s determination to continue sharing meaningful tales.
Many organisations have already extended invitations to Shahad, recognising the importance of her work in guiding children on how to embrace those with special abilities or who may be different in any way.
Surprisingly, ‘Laila Has Stripes’ resonates deeply with both children and adults, making it an essential read for all ages.
In a personal message to young readers in the book, Shahad writes, “Laila wants you to remember that it is alright to be different, as long as you are kind and respectful. Being different is a superpower because it shows who truly loves you for who you are!”
Illustrated by the talented Anisa Al Amri, the book empowers children with empathy and addresses the significance of diverse representation. Shahad believes that children understand the value of empathy and aims to inspire positive change through her storytelling.
Dedicated to both children and adults, ‘Laila Has Stripes’ offers healing and celebrates uniqueness, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who reads it. The book’s touching narrative and captivating illustrations make it a must-have addition to every home, school, and library.
About the Author
Shahad Nasr al Wahaibi is a young Omani corporate professional working in the Energy sector, and has made significant contributions to various fields. As the Chief Marketing Officer for iSAW, a global organisation dedicated to advancing women’s growth in the corporate world, she has already impacted countless lives.
Furthermore, her involvement with the Strathclyde MBA in Oman and dedication to teaching marketing reflects her commitment to empowering others. Recognized with the NTI BizPro Award and active in the Toastmasters community, Shahad’s debut book is a testament to her love for literature and her passion for making a difference. ‘Laila Has Stripes’ is now available for purchase online and in leading bookstores, bringing a heartwarming message of acceptance to readers of all ages.
To learn more about the book and the author, please visit: @Shahad_writes on Instagram or Shahad_writes88 on Facebook.
