My America Blooms

Inspired by the author's experience of immigrating to the U.S. from Iran, My America Blooms shares a story of hope.

My America Blooms is a story about a young girl uprooted from her home in Iran. When she and her family are forced to flee Tehran, she brings a pocket of golnar petals from her beloved garden. In America, she begins to tend a new garden as she creates a new life as an immigrant. America brings friendships, community experiences, and stability, planting the seeds of hope. But every garden has its thorns--the girl must dig deep within herself to cultivate the promises of her new home.

This hopeful story embodies the American dream in all its complexity. Fateme Mokhles's evocative, impressionistic art depicts the immigrant experience through the eyes of a child, while Nazanin Agange Ford's moving words remind all readers that they belong.

Nazanin Agange Ford was born in Tehran, Iran and moved to the United States at a young age. She grew up in Southern California and now lives in Nevada with her husband, two daughters, and an Aussie Labradoodle. Her writing explores her Persian heritage and the adventure of growing up. Naz is a former teacher and journalist. She is a member of Inked Voices, the 12x12 Picture Book Challenge, and the American Library Association.

Fateme Mokhles is an illustrator and interdisciplinary artist whose practice is rooted in storytelling. Born in Iran and now based in California, she often draws inspiration from her heritage and lived experiences. Fateme is also the illustrator of Rustam's Picture-Day Pusteen. Her illustrations bring a sense of belonging and depth to children's literature, inspiring imagination and connection.