The Heart's Gaze
In this twenty-four page zine, sixteen works of gentle prose carry readers through the swirling thoughts of author Sondos Al-Saqqa. She writes from the heart of Gaza, breathing stories of love and longing for existence, the “language of the universe,” amidst loss and sorrow. Each piece is a snapshot, a letter, and an orchestration of how hope beats like a moving pulse — a life-saving endeavor.
Editions: English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese.
Message to the Reader
Dear Reader, allow me to first thank your hands that now touch my book!
Please forgive me, for perhaps you will find me sometimes weeping and sometimes laughing, at times surrounded by despair and at others my heart dancing with hope, and so it goes…
But at the end of this book, I carry a message for you. Would it be possible for you to write it in your journal, or hang it on your wall or mirror, I don’t know! Then, let it gently seep inside you with every breath you take.
Reviews
“With a heart that sees and a soul that contemplates, Sondos has crafted a book that invites readers on an exploratory journey into existence, where texts resonate with both mind and heart. Come, embark on a voyage through The Heart’s Gaze. We wish you a fascinating read.” —inner pages, The Heart’s Gaze
About the illustrators:
Maya Lall A half-Japanese, half-Indian artist born and raised in Portland, Oregon, now living and working in Japan. Raised in art school and shaped by years of creative exploration, Maya approaches art as a quiet hobby - a practice of intuition, improvisation, abstraction, and pattern. A calming, contemplative process. A language without words. A soft return to self. A way to connect with others and quietly speak up. Instagram @oneinsilence
Ken Tanaka An artist and art instructor based in Tokyo, Ken likes art that is accessible for anyone, whether in the creation of it or in the enjoyment of it. This is his second collaboration with Sondos Al-Saqqa following “Aerie Tales” which was published in September 2024. Instagram: @ Kenfrog
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For translated editions: inquire if the zine is available in your language. Some zines have English, French