Sahtinay Abaza is an American Syrian whose ancestors are from the North Caucasus. She grew up in the United Arab Emirates before making Florida her permanent home. But It wasn't until she became a mother of two little girls, that she admired how fun and whimsical the holidays are in the United States. Unfortunately, she couldn't find an engaging tale to read to her kids about any of the Muslim holidays she celebrates. This motivated her to write her first picture book, "Looking for the Eid Moon", which won the 2020 SCBWI Emerging Voices Award. Her second book, "The Ramadan Drummer," made the 2024 Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection.
Sahtinay hopes her work will help demonstrate the importance that all children, regardless of their background and faith, see themselves in fun and light-hearted stories that are filled with hope… stories that offer a glimpse of the world we'd love to see.
- The Alchemist.
So many people had a tremendous impact on my writing journey. Some don’t even know it!
I want to thank Publisher Nancy Paulsen for recommending that I join SCBWI. Author Laurie Friedman for being an incredible mentor. Her guidance helped me secure representation from my wonderful Literary Agent, Lynnette Novak at The Seymour Agency. Author Candy Barnhisel for pairing me with Editor Sunita Apte at Reycraft Books, during Critique-a-Palooza. Sunita not only offered me my first book deal, but also paired me with the incredibly talented Dinara Mirtalipova. I couldn’t imagine anyone else illustrating “The Ramadan Drummer.” Editor Barb McNally from Sleeping Bear Press for making me feel so included throughout the publishing of “Looking for the Eid Moon.” The talented Sandra Eide, whose illustrations are so whimsical and dreamy. My artist friend Eva Erdei for all her support and cheerleading. Lastly, I want to thank all the wonderful people at SCBWI.