The story of a book in Gaza: A treasured possession given new lease of life

Ten-year-old Aya al-Shawa holds a recently received book, representing resilience amid Gaza's destruction. The book was buried under rubble after an Israeli attack destroyed its building, then recovered, cleaned, and repaired before reaching a new reader. With 98% of schools damaged or destroyed and around 700,000 children deprived of regular education since October 2023, books have become vital for learning. Mohammed Saad, a book collector from Beit Lahiya, found part of his collection after his library was destroyed in December 2023, demonstrating cultural revival despite ongoing conflict.