The Camel Library: A True Story from Pakistan

by Marzieh Abbas, Anain Shaikh (Illustrator)

Alongside warm and soft illustrations by Anain Shaikh, Marzieh Abbas lovingly weaves the heartfelt true story of Pakistan's first camel library, which reconnected Pakistani children to the light of books in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meet Roshan the camel! He spends his days carrying firewood with his human, Murad, to feed their family. One day, a pandemic sweeps through their home country of Pakistan, closing the schools and public libraries. Many children, especially in rural areas, were left without access to learning materials.

Then Roshan and Murad get a call from an organization that wants to help, and they accept a new mission: instead of carrying firewood, they'll carry books. Day after day, they set out to different villages, Roshan's back loaded with books to lend out to the children they meet. But they don't just bring stories—they also carry joy, hope, and connection.

The back of the book includes photos and more information about the camel library program, as well as fun facts about camels.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Animals, Childrens, Pakistan, Books About Books, Middle East

32 pages, Hardcover

Published August 19, 2025

About the author

Marzieh Abbas
Author bio: Marzieh is an award-winning author. Raised between the bustling cities of Dubai, U.A.E and Karachi, Pakistan, Marzieh loves traveling, reading and samosas. She is a member of SCBWI, 12x12, and a graduate of the Lyrical Language Lab, Children's Book Academy, and Storyteller Academy. She loves teaching fellow creatives and has conducted several classes online for writers. She is active on Twitter, Blue sky, and Threads where she continues to form connections with the Writing Community, runs a kidlit review group on Facebook and blogs about her author journey and life in Pakistan on Instagram. Marzieh dreams of owning a talking parrot someday. But, until then, she lives in Pakistan with her husband and children who inspire her every day. A DUPATTA IS... (Feiwel & Friends, 2023) is her debut picture book in the traditional American market. She is also the author of the popular Nadia & Nadir series which has 12 books out so far and six more are on the way. Visit her on the web at www.marziehabbas.com

IG link: https://www.instagram.com/marziehabba...
Twitter link: https://twitter.com/MarziehAbbas
FB link: https://www.facebook.com/marziehabbas/
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@marziehabbas...
Blue sky: https://www.threads.net/@marziehabbas...



Picture books under contract:
HENNA IS…(Feiwel & Friends, 2024)
AWE-SAMOSAS! (Clarion, 2024)
YASMEEN LARI, GREEN ARCHITECT (Clarion, 2024)
PICKLING TIME (Albert Whitman, 2025)
BOOKS ON MY BACK (Feiwel & Friends, 2024)

Board books under contract:
TBA

Chapter book series under contract:
NADIA AND NADIR (ABDO Books, 2024)

Reviews

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

About a camel that became a traveling library!
So cool and interesting.

[Allison Haehnel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Marzieh Abbas for including librarians in your dedication. THE CAMEL LIBRARY is the story of how Murad and his camel, Roshad, brought books to remote villages of Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their success brought about grants for more traveling camel libraries to connect villages together and spread a look of books to children. Eagle-eyed readers can spot one of Ms. Abbas’s other titles in Roshad’s pockets.

[Deke Moulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really cute and sweet story about the power of libraries, and how vital and beloved they become especially in remote parts of the world. Love that it’s told from the camels point of view. The illustrations are so cute!

[Angela De Groot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love hearing about traveling libraries and books making into the hands of readers in underserved areas around the world. In this non-fiction picture book we follow Roshan the camel’s journey from being a carrier of firewood to a carrier of books - Pakistan’s first camel library. The back matter includes photographs of Roshan and children helping themselves to library books, and information about camel libraries and “Camel Superpowers.” Engaging text and warm illustrations make for an enjoyable read.

[Srujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully told story that highlights resilience and the transformative power of literacy. Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan, we follow Murad and his remarkable camel, Roshan, as they navigate difficult terrain to bring a traveling library to remote villages.
​What makes this book stand out is how it balances heart with education. I loved learning about the "superpowers" that allow camels like Roshan to thrive in the desert, making him the perfect hero for this mission. The joy of the children as they reconnect with the light of books is genuinely touching and never feels forced. It’s a gentle, inspiring story of the creative ways communities support one another during a crisis. A must-read for young readers!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Considering my obsession with the biblioburros of South America and the Kentucky Book Women of the United States, I knew I'd love The Camel Library. I wasn't wrong.

The Camel Library is the illustrated story of Roshad the camel and his person Murad, who in 2020 take on the very important task of taking books to the children of Pakistan during the shut-downs. While unsafe to gather indoors at places like brick-and-mortar libraries, it was deemed ok (with precautions) to meet people in small groups outdoors to visit the camel library! Thanks to Roshad, many children across Pakistan got to enjoy fresh books regularly.

Marzieh Abbas does an excellent job of balance in telling the story. It is all told at a child's comprehension level, but with so many details to round out the story. I felt that I got a full picture. It's also gorgeously illustrated throughout.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on true events, this is the story of Pakistan's first camel library told from the camel's point of view. Murad and his camel, Roshan, deliver firewood in rural Pakistan. During the Covid-19 pandemic, when there is not enough work, they get a new job of carrying books to remote villages. No one knows if this will be a successful endeavor. However, the response is so positive that"soon an entire caravan of camels" will be transporting books. An inspiring picture book that celebrates reading and gives a heartwarming example of how books are loved by children throughout the world. Don't miss the additional information at the back!

[Kirin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set during covid, this non fiction picture book told from the camel's perspective capitalizes on the uniqueness of not just a mobile library, but one that uses a camel in remote Pakistani villages, to engage children and hopefully spark discussion. On the surface the story works well for preschool and kindergarteners, but I really think early elementary children will also benefit from this book, as it facilitates critical thinking about innovation, literacy, culture, terrain, and charity. There is nothing Islamic in the text by the Muslim author, but head coverings, chadors and dupattas, are seen on many females in the illustrations, as per cultural custom. I love the backmatter, primarily for answering how Murad is compensated, highlighting the organizations that collaborated, and providing sourcing for the very real story that reads like fiction.

Roshan the camel hauls firewood for his human, Murad. When a virus hits, need drops, but then a new opportunity arises: taking books to children in remote villages. Now each day is an adventure as Roshan and Murad are greeted by excited children anxious to swap out books, share stories, and meet the celebrity camel.

[Roben · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is narrated by a camel named Roshan who lives in Pakistan. Her human is named Murad. He and Roshan carry loads of firewood every day so Murad can take care of his large family.

But than came the COVID pandemic. Roshan and Murad had to carry more wood and travel farther. People were isolated. Children could not go to school and people were worried that they would not be able to learn without books or school.

An organization contacts Murad and asks if he and Roshan could carry books to remote villages instead of firewood. They visited four villages every week. Soon word spread and reporters came to tell the story in newspapers and on TV. Roshan soon became a star! And more camel libraries were funded.

There is a note at the back that explains the Camel Libraries in Pakistan and also one that explores the super powers of camels. A list of sources is also included.

I like that the story is related from Roshan's perspective - I think children will find that appealing. And also, of course, the importance placed upon reading and how much the children enjoyed receiving their books each week.

[Kimberly Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Marzieh Abbas' books are always eagerly anticipated in my household - and this one was no exception! Told from the perspective of adorable protagonist, Roshan the camel, this heartfelt true story of Pakistan's first camel library is an inspiring reminder of the power and purpose that books bring to young readers. With words told with humor and heart by Marzieh Abbas and delightful illustrations by Anain Shaikh, this tale resonated with life and hope, detailing the importance of this mobile library in reconnecting Pakistani children to the joy of reading during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Helpful backmatter is also included, comprising photos and interesting information about the camel library program, as well as fun facts about camels!

[Kelsey Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE CAMEL LIBRARY tells the true story of the first camel to deliver library books to children in Pakistan. The engaging tale is told from the camel’s point of view, imagining how he must have felt as he transitioned from carrying firewood to carrying books. This book overflows with the joy of reading and books! It is also an inspiring story of a community effort to support children and literacy. Kids will enjoy looking at the detailed illustrations, too. Highly recommend this fabulous book for all children’s bookshelves!

[Natasha Khan Kazi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Camel Library by M.T. Abbas, with beautiful illustrations by Anain Shaikh, is a heartwarming true story told from the perspective of Roshan the camel. Once burdened with carrying firewood, Roshan and his companion Murad are given a new purpose—delivering books to children in remote villages in Pakistan during the Covid-19 pandemic. This book shines with the joy of reading, community, and connection, while the soft, detailed illustrations bring the desert journey to life. A touching and inspiring story, perfect for every child’s bookshelf!

[Martha Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is based on a true story of a camel that brought books to children in remote areas of Pakistan during the Covid-19 pandemic. Told from the camel's point of view, this engaging story has bright illustrations that will appeal to children. Back matter includes information about the real camel library program and fun facts about camels. The author and illustrator live in Pakistan. Charming.

[Nathan Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love this book. It's told from the perspective of a camel who becomes a mobile library, which my kids thought was the coolest thing ever. It’s such a fun and uplifting (and true) story, it prompted a lot of good discussion with my kids. The art is reallyu beautiful, and it;s a great showcase for a part of the world we don’t see often enough in kids books. Definitely one we’ll come back to again adn again.

[Stephanie Wildman · Rating 5 out of 5]

From consummate storyteller Marzieh Abbas comes a true tale of the first camel library in Pakistan. Created during the Covid–19 pandemic, the library enabled books to reach children in remote villages who might otherwise been cut-off. Vivid illustrations by Anain Shaikh bring us on the scene as we learn, along with Roshan the camel, how his life will change and how he will change lives. Teachers and librarians take note: backmatter provides more camel fun facts.

[Jyoti Gopal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Instead of carrying firewood, Roshan, the camel, and Murad, his human, are given a new job: carrying books to villages across the desert in Pakistan that have been cut off from schools and libraries because of the Covid 19 pandemic. And of course, it’s not just books they deliver, but joy, adventure and connection. With The Camel Library, author Abbas has written another heartfelt story complemented by soft digital illustrations by Anain Shaikh. A lovely addition to any collection!

[Shireen Hakim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book since it reminded me of the fun day I rode a camel in Pakistan. It was interesting to read a children's book where kids have no dialogue and are side characters while an animals and adult are the main characters. I enjoyed reading this NF story.
Thank you Macmillan Children's for the digital review copy.

[Kari Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Camel Library is a lyrical, heartfelt story about enduring love for libraries and how a pandemic couldn’t shut down children’s love for reading with the help of Roshan the camel to shoulder the load and bring a traveling library to them. This book is perfect for homes, libraries, and classrooms!

[Lydia Lukidis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This inspiring nonfiction picture book introduces Raheem, a librarian bringing books to remote villages on camelback. With engaging text and stunning art, it highlights the power of literacy and determination. A wonderful resource for classrooms, it sparks appreciation for stories, perseverance, and creative solutions to big challenges.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

About a camel and it's owner who during the COVID pandemic started going around to remote villages of Pakistan and delivering books. The camel became a library where kids could pick a book and then return it. A mobile library with a camel. It was the right amount of length for a smaller kid and was interesting to read about how it all came to be.

[Lauren Z · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a true story that takes place during the Covid Pandemic. Murad and his camel Roshan trade their job of delivering firewood to villages for books. The author's note at the end includes photos and more information.

3rd grade does a unit on access to books and this would be a great supplemental text.

[Erika Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful true story about the importance of libraries and the joy they bring in not so bright times. The book was also about resourcefulness and a great introduction into Pakistan culture. Who knew I needed a story from the perspective of a camel. So many wonderful surprises at every page turn in this book. I loved the sweet story and the lovely illustrations.

[Serene Wonderland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved learning about the camel libraries in Pakistan during the pandemic! How original and cute. This is told in the perspective of the camel and the illustrations are gorgeous. There's also info at the back with pictures of the Real Life goings on. It probably should be a 5 but everything about COVID makes me ick.

Highly recommend for 3+! Got ours from our local library.

[Jessica Stremer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on a true story told from the perspective of a camel who delivered books as part of Pakistan's first Camel Library. Lyrical, entertaining, and overall a really enjoyable read. The illustrations pair perfectly with the text and add depth to the overall story. Highly recommend!

[Bonnie Kelso · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true story about a unique mobile library that was sparked by the COVID pandemic. Told from the point of view of a camel, this story sparks curiosity and speaks to the special relationship between humans and animals.

[Jilanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Roshan! What a wonderful story about getting books to future readers told very creatively from the camel's perspective (the only thing that's not a true part of the story). And I love Roshan's commentary, funny jokes, and expressiveness. I think kids will, too. A very huggable book!

[Tracie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cheerful, uplifting and true story of how Syeda Basarat Kasim established mobile camel libraries--books delivered by camel!--for children in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Narrated by the camel, Roshan.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

When COVID hit, Murad and his camel, Roshan, began working as a traveling library. They delivered books to children who could not go inside public buildings due to safety protocols. The third graders loved this book.

[Namita Mehra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this adorable and true story about a camel and his owner in Pakistan. Told from the camel's POV this unique picture book is beautifully illustrated and with Marzieh's lyrical words, it's truly a magical story children will love!

[Dolores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uplifting and heart-warming, this is the story of an innovative effort to keep kids reading after libraries shut down in Pakistan during the COVID Pandemic.