Hands Around the Library: Protecting Egypt’s Treasured Books

The inspiring true story of demonstrators standing up for the love of a library, from a New York Times bestselling illustrator

In January 2011, in a moment that captured the hearts of people all over the world, thousands of Egypt's students, library workers, and demonstrators surrounded the great Library of Alexandria and joined hands, forming a human chain to protect the building. They chanted "We love you, Egypt " as they stood together for the freedom the library represented.

Illustrated with Susan L. Roth's stunning collages, this amazing true story demonstrates how the love of books and libraries can unite a country, even in the midst of turmoil.

Susan L. Roth is the author and/or illustrator of more than forty books for children, including the New York Times bestseller Listen to the Wind. She lives in Queens, New York.

Karen Leggett Abouraya is a radio and print journalist, specializing in children’s literature. She lives in Silver Spring, Maryland.