As a Jewish content picture book author for older picture book readers, my goal is to create engaging stories about important, little-known facts and events. I was initially blown over by the fact that it was Alaska Airlines that took on the daring rescue mission of airlifting Yemenite Jews to safety in Israel. Who knew? It needed to be told.
Beyond that, what struck me is the ignorance of non-Jews and even most Ashkenazi Jews regarding the insufferable conditions and life-threatening situations that Jews in Arab lands faced before and after the Jewish State was declared. The 49,000 Jews that successfully fled Yemen were part of the approximately 1 million Jews forced to flee countries throughout the Middle East and North Africa in 1949–1950. Very often they had to make split-second decisions, and as On the Wings of Eagles shows through the true story of Haila, they left behind their beloved homes, knowing that they would never be allowed to return. I want readers and their parents to know this, especially in today’s rampant antisemitic and anti-Israel climate, fueled by mistruths spouted by ignorant people.
Naturally, as a picture book author, the visual side for me is very important. While in my mind’s eye I envision what the illustrations could look like, I am always intrigued to see how my books unfold through the eyes of an artist. I can honestly say that I am in love with Alisha’s illustrations. The human emotions are powerfully expressed, the cultural details are accurate, the landscapes evocative. She captured the atmosphere I was hoping for. Hand in hand with the storyline, she captured Haila and her family’s fears, hopes, and dreams as they fled their ancient home, inviting the reader to understand why Israel as a Jewish homeland is so important.
On the Wings of Eagles, written by Tami Lehman-Wilzig and illustrated by Alisha Monnin, New Jersey: Apples & Honey Press, 2025.
Visually Preserving Yemenite Culture and Tradition
Working On the Wings of Eagles was a fascinating process for me and the art director, Jennifer Rinaldi. I started by researching the lives and culture of the Yemenite Jewish people and discovered that much of their religious practices, clothing, and culture was preserved in traditions dating back centuries. I was especially inspired by photographic documentation of them emigrating to Israel during Operation Magic Carpet. Through these photos I was able to envision the clothing and home of the story’s characters.
Before starting character sketches, I spent much of my time looking at photos hosted by the Jewish Virtual Library and their section on Yemen. The Jewish population held tight to its roots and was unique and set apart from mainstream Yemeni culture. I hope the illustrations reflect the feeling of a resolute people.
Getting down to even greater specifics, I spent a lot of time looking at the embroidery on the women’s and girls’ clothing. Each photo that I found seemed to reflect how much time and care every person must have spent working on their garments. I hope my illustrations reflect the spirit of the clothes and the general look of the embroidery.
So much of this story was brand new to me and became wonderfully personalized by the author, Tami. She provided a strong foundation for me with her words and all of the information she provided. It made the starting point of Haila’s story easier to find, artistically. In the process of illustrating this book, I learned so much about the plight of the Jewish people of Yemen.
