The Fig Tree: A Story About Building Friendship and Peace in Cyprus

by Costantia Manoli, Leah Giles (illustrator)

In The Fig Tree, war separates two sides of an island, and a solitary tree brings together two children across the divide, in this touching picture book about peace, community, and forgiveness―written by award-winning author Costantia Manoli and illustrated by Leah Giles.

On the sunny island of Cyprus, a tall and lonely fig tree stands. Her fruit ripens, yet no one comes to share it. Years of fear and division have split the island in two, leaving her in the middle, alone. She remembers the conflict that tore her people apart, but she also remembers the warm days before, when laughter and friendship knew no boundaries.

Yet, with changing seasons comes renewed hope, and the old tree dreams of a future where sharing summer’s first figs might mend those broken bonds.

In this heartwarming picture book by Costantia Manoli, brought to life with Leah Giles’s vibrant illustrations, the shadows of the past give way to a bright future where children put aside fear and distrust to discover that the simple act of sharing can bridge the deepest rifts.

Genres: Picture Books, War

40 pages, Hardcover

Published June 17, 2025

Reviews

[Carol Farrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story made me sad. It is the story of conflict in Cyprus and how families and friends were, and still are divided, by it as observed by a fig tree waiting for families to come back to pick and enjoy it’s fruit. 50 years later that still can’t happen as the island is divided by barbed wire and mine fields.

[Candace Spizzirri · Rating 5 out of 5]

HE FIG TREE: A Story About Building Friendship and Peace in Cyprus by Costantia Manoli is a poignant and beautifully crafted picture book set in a country divided by conflict. Once united, the people now live on opposite sides of a Green Line. At the heart of this separation stands an old, lonely fig tree—yearning for forgiveness, reconciliation, and the return of friendship between neighbors.

Leah Giles’s stunning cut-paper illustrations perfectly complement Manoli’s lyrical prose, adding depth and emotion to the story. This book delivers a powerful message and serves as a meaningful conversation starter about peace, empathy, and healing. A must-have for libraries, classrooms, and family bookshelves. The back matter is excellent, providing valuable context and insight. Highly recommended.

[Kimberly Horch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had no idea! This story taught me as an adult!

I find it amazing that the author wrote this story of hope about a conflict that still does not have a solution--she imagines two kids who recognize the truth that a "fig is a fig and people are people" whichever side of the line they live on. The fact that her solution is kids empowers kid readers to be the one to make a difference.

The illustrations are incredible-- the abstract style allows the illustrator to show war and conflict in a way that isn't scary. There are so many great talking points in this story about political divides, tolerance, and rebuilding communities.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fig Tree tells the story of the split between the Greek and Turkish people of Cyprus. Told from the point of view of a fig tree caught between both sides, the story turns from loving to heart-wrenching to hopeful. The tree “knows that whatever side you’re from, the fruit always tastes the same. She knows that sharing its sweetness can bring people back together.” The Fig Tree is beautifully illustrated through collage by Leah Giles and both vividly and tenderly written with words by Costantia Manoli. I highly recommend it!

[Amanda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful cut paper illustrations and lyrical text bring light and hope to this story of a divided country and the series of events that led it there. I never knew about the divide in Cyprus and that it still exists today. By personifying the fig tree and using it as a symbol of hope, Manoli and Giles make a tough topic easily accessible to children and adults. A necessary addition to home and classroom libraries.

[Katelyn Aronson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came to this story as a fan of the Mediterranean, of figs, olives, and Halloumi cheese… yet completely ignorant of Cyprus’ poignant history. Thanks to Manoli and Giles for educating me via their tale of a fig tree as silent witness to the division of a nation and culture. Here the hope for peace is as palpable as summer fruit, and ripe for the picking. An important message in our divided world and a beautiful book to share with children in view of a brighter future.

[Leslie Piotrowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through the perspective of a fig tree, we learn about the conflict on the island of Cyprus that split two intertwined communities apart. The tree imagines a day when children on both sides of the border begin searching for her figs once more. This gem of a story is full of hope, resilience and love.

[Alison McGauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This moving picture book is lyrically written and features gorgeously unique illustrations! In the book, the fig tree narrates the captivating and poignant story of Cyprus. I enjoyed learning the history of the island through the story and in the back matter. The Fig Tree would make a great classroom read aloud for social studies and social emotional learning.

[Hà Dinh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story that helps young readers understand how a tree and its fruits can heal wounds and hearts due to conflict and war. It is important and poignant, and the illustrations are inviting and expressive. It is written with great sensitivity and helps children to seek understanding and peace for a better world.

[Latifah S Ningrum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book will leave a deep impression on anyone who reads it. It's also touching because it took several years for the grandson to realize his grandfather's dream.