BERLIN, July 7, 2026 – Today, ZULA Kids announces the release of its new picture book, „Xyka and Mliha“. The story is designed for children ages five to eight and sensitively explores themes of migration, emotional transition, and finding belonging in a new environment. The book is available starting today on Amazon and the publisher's online shop.
In „Xyka and Mliha“, young Xyka moves to a new home with her Pa. Feeling overwhelmed by the changes, she initially retreats from the world around her. Her perspective shifts when she discovers Mliha, a small injured creature in need of her care. As their bond deepens, Xyka finds the courage to step outside and embrace her new surroundings. This gentle story provides caregivers and educators with a meaningful way to discuss the anxieties of starting over and the healing power of friendship.
„With this story, we want to provide children with a tool to better understand their own emotions during times of change,“ says Janine Vanessa Heinrich, Co-Founder of ZULA Kids. „Xyka and Mliha show that even in a new, unfamiliar world, you can plant roots and regain confidence.“
The illustrations by Carina Zidan enhance the hopeful narrative with a dreamlike and imaginative visual style, while Dede Matenaers‘ writing draws on personal experiences with migration and resilience. This release is part of the publisher’s 12 new titles created during the annual Book-A-Thon, a mentoring initiative dedicated to providing a platform for creators from underrepresented communities and supporting them in bringing their creativity into the world.
About ZULA Kids
ZULA Kids is a publisher dedicated to inclusive children’s literature. Since 2022, founders Janine Vanessa Heinrich and Alain Missala have been on a mission to build a world where every child can see themselves reflected in the stories they read. The work is supported by the ZULA Tribe, a non-profit organization for literacy promotion. The project is proudly supported by Audible.
Press Contact
ZULA Kids UG, Paul-Lincke-Ufer 21, 10999 Berlin
press@zula.kids | press@zula-tribe.com
For more information and assets, please visit: https://zula.kids/en/pages/press