Today’s Picture Book Postcard is from the Omid family of My America Blooms.
My America Blooms is 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.
My America Blooms
Author: Nazanin Agange Ford
Illustrator: Fateme Mokhles
Publisher: Beaming Books
Publication Date: June 30, 2026
Educational Materials: Discussion Guide
This fictional story is inspired by my experience immigrating to the United States as a child. I strived to be honest about the challenges, while leaning into the opportunities and belonging that my family encountered. My hope was to capture the promise of America through the eyes of a child.
– Author Nazanin Agange Ford
About Author Nazanin Agange Ford
Nazanin Agange Ford was born in Tehran, Iran and moved to the United States with her family in first grade. Naz is a former teacher and journalist, a current member of SCBWI, Inked Voices, the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, and the American Library Association. She writes stories exploring her Persian heritage and the adventures of childhood for children who see with their eyes and their hearts.
Find out more about this author at www.nazaninford.com.
About Illustrator Fateme Mokhles
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. Her illustrations bring a sense of belonging and depth to children’s literature, inspiring imagination and connection.
Find out more about this illustrator at https://fatememokhles.weebly.com/.
Calling All Picture Book Authors
Do you have a picture book releasing soon? Would you like your new book featured on Picture Book Postcards? Learn more here: Picture Book Postcards Submission Info