I recently finished reading Gaza Diary, and I felt I must share how deeply it affected me. I have read news, seen pictures, and even followed social media updates about Palestine, but nothing had ever made me feel truly connected or emotional—until I read this book.

The moment when Mariyam died was heart-wrenching. I could feel her pain, her struggle, and the tragedy surrounding her life. It wasn’t just a story—I felt as if I was there with her, witnessing every moment of suffering. My heart ached, and I couldn’t hold back my tears.

Later, when Mariyam’s mother, Fatima, passed away, and Ahmed was burying his own mother, it struck me even harder. The grief, the helplessness, the love, and the sorrow—all of it was portrayed in such a raw and real way that I could feel the weight of their loss in my own chest. I found myself crying, overwhelmed by emotions I hadn’t expected to feel so intensely.

Usually, I don’t get attached to news about Palestine. I see posts and pictures on social media, but I just scroll past them. Reading about these lives, these people, and their unimaginable struggles, however, was different. The book made me feel connected to Palestine and its people in a way I never thought possible. I could feel their pain, their hopes, and their humanity. It made me reflect on the harsh realities of our world and the suffering that exists far away from my everyday life.

Gaza Diary didn’t just tell a story; it made me live it. It made me think, feel, and empathize deeply. I never imagined a book could make me so emotionally invested and so aware of the reality of people living in conflict zones. I felt heartbreak, sorrow, and compassion—all at once.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. This book has left a lasting impression on me, and I hope more people can read it and feel the humanity behind the headlines.

Sincerely,

Ramandeep Singh

Dear Mariam,
There is something very powerful about seeing the world through a child’s eyes. Your words carry sadness, but they also carry a stubborn kind of hope. I hope that hope finds its way into your future.

Claire

Dear Mariam & Ahmad,
I finished your story with tears in my eyes, but also with hope in my heart. I hope the day comes when children everywhere can write about their dreams instead of writing about war.

Elif

Dear Mariam,
Reading your diary felt like being invited into a life very different from mine, yet your feelings felt strangely familiar. Fear, family, friendship and hope belong to all of us.

Thank you for sharing your world.

with lots of love

Aadhya

Dear Mariam,
I wish I could send you something more than words. Maybe a little courage, a little peace, and the assurance that your story has reached someone far away. Please keep writing. Your voice matters.

With love,
Sofia