VAHID IMANI

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A Groundbreaking Approach to Graphic Novels: Naji and the Mystery of the Dig Inspires Creativity and Storytelling

 

Solvang, CA – Naji and the Mystery of the Dig introduces a bold new concept in graphic novels, offering readers a uniquely interactive storytelling experience. Departing from traditional formats, this innovative edition features blank dialogue bubbles, inviting individuals to craft their own narratives, engage with the characters, and explore the art of storytelling firsthand.

Adapted from Vahid Imani’s award-winning middle-grade chapter book of the same name, this creative writing edition extends the adventure of its protagonist, Naji, while fostering imagination and literary engagement. A brief synopsis at the beginning of the book serves as a guide, allowing readers to follow the plot while developing their own interpretations.

Additionally, the Black and White Edition offers an immersive artistic experience, allowing readers to bring the illustrations to life with colors of their choice, thereby further enhancing their personal connection to the story.

 

The full collection—including the chapter book, graphic novel, and creative writing edition—has become a valuable resource in middle schools, integrating elements of culture, history, and geography into classroom learning. Furthermore, its availability in English, Spanish, German, and Farsi makes it an excellent tool for immersion programs, fostering language development and critical thinking.

 

“The graphic edition of Naji is great for kids who enjoy comic books and writing their own dialogue and action sequences. Students can listen to sections of Naji (read by the teacher) and then go back through the corresponding illustrations and fill in their own ideas for what each character is saying. The black and white edition allows children to create characters and setting images with color. However, they imagine the scenery. My students were super excited to work on the graphic novel format and use their own ideas and words.” Said Jamie Gilson, Third-grade teacher at Bethlehem Lutheran School, Carson City, Nevada.

 

“It has been thrilling to hear children enjoying personalizing a story with their own dialogues. It fosters creativity.   Naji’s story helps children enjoy moments of commonality between different cultures. Love, fear, laughter, honor, respect, and even enjoying delicious food are just a few common factors that relate us humans to each other,” says Imani. “Our world becomes more peaceful when we all experience joy together. Naji and the Mystery of the Dig is a small step toward a much larger leap that we humans need to take.” Said Imani.

 

 

Beyond the book, young readers, parents, and educators can find engaging activities and educational materials on the official website: www.najistories.com.

 

About the Author

Vahid Imani, a graduate of Gonzaga University’s business program, has written extensively on business and social issues, with his work published by national and local media. His other books, In the Shadow of the Kingmakers and Like the Wind I Go, are available on Amazon and in bookstores. Learn more at www.LikeAWindIGo.com.

 

Where to Find Naji and the Mystery of the Dig

Available in The Book Loft in Solvang and online in multiple formats—including chapter book, audiobook, ebook, graphic novel, and creative writing resource—the story is accessible in four languages: English, Spanish, German, and Farsi.

 

For more details, visit www.najistories.com.

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