The Sand Garden by the Sea: Marty and Devorah's Story

Once, in a place called Gaza, Jewish families lived among gardens, vineyards, and the peaceful sound of the sea. It was a land filled with beauty and hope. The Jewish people who lived there loved their homes, their schools, and their neighborhoods.

In a spirit of peace, the Jews gave this land to their Palestinian neighbors, hoping it would be the beginning of friendship. But sadly, instead of peace, the leaders called Hamas destroyed the gardens and vineyards. They built only concrete walls and hidden tunnels meant to bring harm, not kindness.

Since then, the people of Israel have not found the peace they offered. On October 7, 2023, a terrible attack brought much sorrow and fear. Since that day, the Jewish people have faced more pain and danger, even though their deepest wish is to live safely and peacefully in their homeland.

This book was written so children and families around the world will know the story: that the Jewish people long for peace, but their neighbors chose hatred instead of friendship. The author hopes that by remembering the past and telling the truth with gentle hearts, we can all dream of a future where peace and kindness will finally grow again-like gardens by the sea. This book reflects a true story that happened in Gaza when the Jews were forced off of their land as part of a peace deal with the Palestinians. Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.