Bikhand māmān-i ʻazīzam Persiska (Farsi) 2025

Smile, My Dear Mom is one volume in the Children of the Homeland series, a collection of illustrated stories celebrating the lives of children from different regions of Iran and their efforts to preserve their family heritage. This heartwarming story follows a young boy from the city of Arak whose family earns a living by baking fatir, a traditional Iranian pastry.

When the boy learns that the family bakery may soon close, he is initially delighted. But after seeing how saddened his mother is by the news, he becomes determined to find a way to revive the business and prevent it from shutting down. His journey is filled with creativity, determination, and a growing appreciation for the traditions that have shaped his family’s life.

Through an engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, Smile, My Dear Mom introduces young readers to an important aspect of Iran’s cultural heritage while highlighting themes of family, perseverance, community, and the value of preserving local traditions. It is an inspiring story for children and families interested in culture, history, and the power of individual initiative.