Feda Shtia writes about Gaza I Spy, a new photography book documenting the lives of Gaza’s children amidst the ongoing war.
In the midst of war, where despair often dominates the narrative, the strength and resilience of children can shine as beacons of hope. This is captured in Gaza I Spy, a photography book documenting the lives of Gaza’s children amidst the ongoing war.
Gaza I Spy is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Gaza’s youngest residents. Created in collaboration with talented Gaza-based photographers Anas Ayyad and Hammam Younis ALZyatuniya, the book features 200 images across 300 pages. Each photograph tells a story of resilience, courage and hope, providing an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of children who navigate the harsh realities of war.
The title Gaza I Spy is drawn from the classic children’s game I Spy. This game’s concept of discovery and observation parallels our approach to highlighting moments of strength and hope that often go unnoticed amidst the chaos. Through this lens, we invite readers to see beyond the headlines and connect with the human stories at the heart of the war.
Beyond its captivating visuals, Gaza I Spy features poetry and quotes from renowned Palestinian poets and other authors. This literary dimension adds depth to the visual narrative, enriching the reader’s engagement with each image. A woman from Gaza also tells of her journey, alongside her three daughters, to find a home during the ongoing war. Her photographs capture their desperate flight from one place to another, narrowly escaping death multiple times.
I may not have family in Gaza, but our team there is like family. Sabreen Albaz and her three daughters have become my family, Sabreen sharing her daily life with me through photos and WhatsApp chats. She tells me how she sold her last ring to feed her daughters, how she fled from a UNRWA school shelter to a tent on the beach, and how that tent became a home. Her experiences capture the transformation of Gaza’s beautiful beach into a place of refuge, starkly contrasting with its former joy.
Anas and Hammam are not just photographers; they are courageous young journalists risking their lives daily to document the truth and devastation in Gaza. These talented individuals often borrow equipment from friends or rent it as they don’t have their own cameras. One day they tell me that their press tent was bombed by an Israeli drone. Hammam messages me: ‘Last night I gave my spot in the tent to someone else, then the strike came.’ He narrowly escaped death.
I ask Anas to fill out the information on our Google document and ensure each photo is correctly captioned. Anas tells me ‘I’m in the street trying to catch a signal. I downloaded the document and will fill it offline, waiting for a better chance to upload it back.’
How many of them will remain when Gaza I Spy sees the light of day? How many hearts will still beat?
The coffee table format of Gaza I Spy was chosen to amplify the visual impact of the photographs and foster reflection. The large, high-quality pages and elegant binding transform this book into a striking centre-piece. By presenting it this way, we create a meaningful connection between the reader and the stories of Gaza’s children, offering a powerful contrast to the often superficial contents of high-end publications.
Gaza I Spy is not just about raising awareness; it is about making a tangible difference. All proceeds from the book will be donated to support children in Gaza, providing essential aid and resources. This non-profit initiative aligns with the values of social justice and meaningful action, making every purchase a step toward supporting those in need.
We successfully launched our book at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 17, 2024. The book is now available for purchase, and we are excited to share this powerful work with the world. Your support will help us continue spreading the message of resilience and hope. For those who purchase, we will begin shipping copies in early November.
Gaza I Spy is more than a book; it is a beacon of hope and a call to action. By supporting this project, you are not only witnessing the strength of Gaza’s children but also contributing to their future. Together, we can amplify their voices and make a lasting impact.
To find out more about Sunono Publishing and the journey of Gaza I Spy, go to the website or follow us on Instagram, X or Facebook. Buy Gaza I Spy here.
