About the Author and Illustrator
Leila Boukarim writes books for kids because they are the best kinds of books, and kids are the best kinds of people. She enjoys reading multiple books at once, daydreaming, spending time with friends, and sharing stories and food, preferably at the same time. When she's invited to a party, she always brings hummus and is now known as "the hummus lady," a title she wears with pride. Leila lives in Berlin, Germany with her husband, two kids, and cat/office mate, Dill. You can visit her at www.leilaboukarim.com
Alex Lopez was born in Sabadell, Spain. He started drawing when he was a kid, which inspired a love of creating comics and cartoons. With over fifteen years of working as an illustrator, he is often asked, “What is your secret?” His answer is simple—listening to music and eating chocolate!
“Simple yet energetic dialogue by Boukarim (Hello Goodbye Little Island) combines with deliciously bright artwork from Lopez (LankyBox: Epic Adventure!), making the events of this goofy early reader graphic novel offering practically bounce off the page. It’s a warm and madcap meditation on teamwork, patience, and new experiences told through a comestible escapade starring cartoonish pseudo-siblings finding common ground in their love for chickpea paste.” - Publisher's Weekly
"A mix of simple comedic ingredients with a few twists as garnish makes for a funny, fast read.” -
Kirkus Reviews
"Lopez's expressive, witty artwork is full of comedic, slapstick energy and really complements the characters and the overall story. In addition to the playful, inviting story, Zips and Eeloo actually follow some good directions, and a recipe at the end will give kids a chance to try it on their own. Delicious fun." -
Booklist
"With a heaping splash of side-eye, a dash of alien confusion, and a whole lot of garbanzo beans, Boukarim and Lopez have created the perfect recipe for a hilarious adventure that readers are sure to devour!" - Tara J. Hannon, author of Birtle and the Purple Turtles