This stunning story by Iranian author Payam Ebrahimi is a tale for young dreamers who strive to conquer the world and for grown-ups who think they’ve already done so—only to realize that the world is far bigger and more mysterious than they imagined.
What does it mean to be the first and the best? For Mayra, a girl who has mastered every science and conquered every challenge, it’s everything. She’s determined to be the first to reach the end of the world—and she does! But when she arrives, she finds a boy already there. To him, Mayra’s “end of the world” is the beginning of his. Mayra can’t accept this. She insists it’s the end and sends him away, reclaiming her place as the first. Yet, as she sits alone at the edge of the world, she begins to wonder: Was it worth it? Wouldn’t it have been better to share a cup of tea or cocoa with someone? But now, there’s no one else… or is there? Could there be an entirely new world waiting to be discovered?
PRIZES 2025 The BRAW Amazing Bookshelf Sustainability of the BCBF
KEY SELLING POINTS
This book reminds us that true greatness isn’t about being first.
Themes of cultural and personal differences.
The story’s layered narrative opens the door for meaningful discussions about ambition, success, and what it truly means to “conquer” the world.
The story beautifully explores loneliness and friendship.
Like many great books, it resonates with both children and adults.
ORIGINAL LANGUAGE Persian / English
Picturebook Age: 6+ Pages: 40 Size: 220*290 mm Published in 2024 by Samokat
