Growing up in 1970s London, ten-year-old Louise doesn’t know much about her Jewish family’s life in Iraq. Then a magical cloak transports her to Baghdad during the 1930s and early 1940s, where she experiences her mother Flora’s childhood firsthand. Louise discovers a vibrant Jewish community filled with family, friends, favorite foods, and Jewish traditions. But as antisemitism grows and a violent mob attacks Flora’s home, Louise also begins to understand why her family was eventually forced to leave Iraq.
The PJ Our Way Book Selection Committee is always looking for engaging stories that introduce readers to the diversity of Jewish life. This short, fast-paced graphic novel is perfect for younger readers and offers a rare glimpse into the history and traditions of Iraqi Jews. We especially appreciated its warm, natural Jewish content, its portrayal of Muslim neighbors risking their own safety to protect a Jewish family, and the colorful illustrations that bring Flora’s world to life. Inspired by the author’s own family history, The Cloak from Baghdad is a moving story about family, identity, and discovering the past.
As PJ Our Way reader Flynn noted, “One thing that I really liked about this book was how the author captured the point of view. I thought that it was very clever that Louise acts as a narrator throughout the story, but she is also one of the main characters!”
This book is perfect for fans of A Boy from Baghdad, Two Tribes, and The Genius Under the Table.
November 5, 2026