The author - Fatima J. Ali
Hamoudi & his Kittens is the debut self published children's book from British author Fatima J. Ali.
Fatima first discovered Hamoudi and his family through social media, and over the past year has built a close friendship with them based on mutual aid— staying in regular contact through video calls and witnessing firsthand the warmth, joy, and love at the heart of their family amidst the enormity of the suffering in Gaza.
Tremendously moved by their story, she wanted to find a creative way to support them financially while sharing just how wonderful they are with the world. This book is the result of that wish.
Fatima's passion lies in writing children's books and creating art that shines a light on marginalised and invisible communities — telling the stories that too often go untold, and bringing them to young readers with warmth, honesty, and care.
Alongside her writing, Fatima is currently building a business rooted in traditional Bengali folk embroidery — preserving and celebrating a rich craft heritage while bringing it to new audiences.
Proceeds from the sale of this book go directly to Hamoudi and his family as mutual aid.
The illustrator - Rynah Jamil
Rynah is a young artist and creative entrepreneur based in Toronto, Canada.
While pursuing her Business Degree from the Schulich School of Business, she launched her illustration page and small creative business, building an online community through artwork inspired by storytelling and animals. Her work is deeply influenced by animal welfare, environmental stewardship, human rights, mental health awareness, and human connection.
Fatima first discovered Rynah through her illustration work online, leading to a collaboration on Hamoudi and His Kittens. This project is Rynah's first illustrated children's book and holds a special place in her heart due to the story's connection to the Palestinian cause, along with its themes of compassion, resilience, and family.
Today, Rynah creates under Butter Bon Studio, a creative space dedicated to whimsical illustrations inspired by her childhood, family, Bengali culture, and lifelong love of animals. The studio's mascot, Butter Bon, was created as a tribute to the warmth, nostalgia, and family traditions that shaped her childhood.
Rynah hopes to continue illustrating children's books in the future, sharing meaningful stories and memorable characters with young readers around the world.
Explore her work @butterbonstudio