Two Homes, Two Cultures, One Boy Finding His Place
What If You Could Love Two Homes Without Ever Having To Choose Between Them?
Saad knows the sounds of home: familiar languages, Qawwali music, family traditions, and memories of Jhelum. But Birmingham brings different food, new classmates, and words he is still learning. His first day raises a question many children quietly carry: where do I fit?
See The World Through
Saad's Eyes
From Bombay Mix to baked beans, and cricket to football, Saad’s day is full of moments young readers can talk about.
Meet Misbah Shaheen
A Teacher Who Wanted Children To See Themselves In Books
Misbah Shaheen is a Birmingham-based primary teacher and senior leader who believes children deserve to see their lives, backgrounds, and experiences reflected in the books they read. After 11 years as a class teacher, she noticed a gap in children’s literature: there were not enough stories that reflected the cultural heritage and everyday experiences of pupils growing up in inner Birmingham.
As an educator, Misbah has championed the importance of connecting learning with pupils’ cultural backgrounds. Her work in schools has shown her how representation can help children feel recognised, valued, and proud of who they are. As an aunt to 12 children, she also understands how important it is for young readers to find characters and stories they can relate to.
Testimonials
Book Reader Reviews
"A Celebration of Two Cultures"
Two Skies, One Saad by Misbah Shaheen is a lovely way to show children that having two cultures is something to celebrate. Saad's journey feels gentle and reassuring.
— Quincy Nash
"Everyday Differences Feel Normal"
I appreciate how the story in Two Skies, One Saad makes everyday differences feel normal. It could open up some wonderful conversations with children.
— Rodrigo Lugo
"Finding Comfort in a New Place"
Saad's experience reminded me of children who are learning to feel comfortable in a new place without forgetting where they came from.
— Mavis Morse
"A Personal and Meaningful Story"
I loved the way the book Two Skies, One Saad by Misbah Shaheen includes food, music, language, and faith. These details make Saad's world feel personal and meaningful.
— Kylo Fuentes
"A Thoughtful Message About Belonging"
A thoughtful story about identity and inclusion that reminds children they don't have to leave one part of themselves behind to belong.
— Benson Lee
Most popular book written in the year.
What Would You Bring From Home?
Step Into Saad's First Day At School
A favourite food, a familiar song, a special outfit, or a language spoken at home: what makes you feel like yourself? Saad’s first day in Birmingham is full of these little reminders of who he is. Read Two Skies, One Saad, share your own family traditions, and start a conversation about what home means to you.