E.G. Alaraj is a children’s author living in Vancouver. Alaraj holds a BA in English Literature and several language teaching certificates. She was an English teacher for newcomers before focusing on writing. Many of her works were written for the educational market.
Fiction (Juvenile, Picture book)
My Language is a Garden
Illustrated by Rachel Wada.
Victoria, BC: Orca Book Publishers, 2026.
Publisher’s Synopsis (From its website)
A parent invites a child to get to know their language. In a driving rhythm, they speak about the language blossoming in deserts and plains, building castles and forts and motoring over roadways. Not hemmed in by borders, this language holds ancient knowledge, medicines and nourishment within it, and has explored the farthest reaches of the universe. The parent realizes that teaching their heritage language to their child will connect them always and allow them to grow a garden of language together.
For the parents and caregivers who want to share their heritage language with the children in their lives, E.G. Alaraj has crafted this celebratory and inspiring poem in hopes it will get more conversations started and encourage kids to see the joy in discovering their roots. Exploring the links between language, culture and the natural world, this book is a heartfelt celebration of the vitality and importance of our languages and how they bind us together.
Fiction (Juvenile, Board book)
When Stars Arise
Illustrated by Martyna Czub.
Victoria, BC: Orca Book Publishers, 2023.
Publisher’s Synopsis (From its website)
The world grows restful, but don’t sleep yet, wait until the grassy meadow is quiet and the forest creatures are hidden away. Until the farm animals are snug in the barn and the toys are tidied in their proper spots. Until the bath warms your toes and the blanket tucks you in tightly. Only when we finish our story and the stars are in the sky is it time to sleep.
Calming, lyrical rhythms, pleasing repetition and dreamy watercolors make When Stars Arise a gentle lullaby that reinforces the bedtime routine.
Awards and Honours
2024 BC and Yukon Book Prizes–Christie Harris Illustrated Children’s Literature Prize (Shortlisted)
Links
Publisher Orca Book Publishers