What's the Matter, Habibi?

A parent might reach for this book when their child is confused or hurt by a friend's sudden, unexplained change in behavior. It tells the story of Ahmed, whose usually calm camel, Habibi, suddenly bolts through a bustling bazaar. Instead of getting angry, Ahmed patiently follows his friend, trying to understand the source of his distress. The book gently models empathy, curiosity, and the importance of looking past confusing behavior to find the root cause of a problem. Its lighthearted tone, humorous illustrations, and simple resolution make it a perfect tool for opening a conversation with 4- to 7-year-olds about how to care for a friend who is having a tough time.