MAMA'S SCENT

A child revels in the comfort of Mama’s distinct aroma.

“Mama’s scent…reminds me of rose gardens, and red cheeks, and happy days.” It inspires thoughts of “colorful cakes, and special celebrations, when I wear lace and ribbons in my hair.” Above all, Mama’s smell “makes me feel safe, as if she’s always by my side.” At school one day, the tan-skinned young narrator smells something familiar. Confused, the child searches for Mama throughout the building. Instead of finding her, however, the protagonist notices the scent fading. Disappointed, the child returns to class and sits down, only to realize that the smell has returned. Eventually, readers discover its source: the protagonist’s backpack, where Mama has tucked a scarf “in case I [get] cold in the frosty morning.” After school, mother and child wrap their arms around each other in a warm embrace, ending the book on an uplifting note that reinforces their warm and loving relationship. Translated from Arabic, Naja Mahfouz’s text is more poem than story, weaving lyrical descriptions with Awoor’s exquisitely whimsical mixed-media illustrations, bursting with gentle colors, lush textures, and incredible detail. Dominated by shades of blue, the artwork relies on abstract imagery, often depicting Mama as a soothingly larger-than-life figure.

A tender tribute to mothers and their children.