They say you should never judge a book by its cover and on the whole, I would agree. With Songs of Motherhood - Għanjiet l-Omm however, I think you’re safe to do just that.

Every year, Moira, our illustrator looks at the themes present in that year’s book and thinks of ways in which she can incorporate them in the characters that adorn the front (and back) cover. This, combined with the Mediterranean elements that frame the title of the book ensure the cover is relevant for its audience, and timeless. Mothers and motherly figures can see themselves reflected, can resonate with one of the characters and know that what lies between the pages is something that could belong to them too.

On the florals, Moira had this to say;

“I chose the galletta because it’s something that reminds me of my grandmother and my mother. My grandmother always grew large galletta plants in her backyard and my mum always has them around. Then the Maltese giant fennel is something I’ve come to appreciate when I lived abroad and in a cold, wet country I fantasised about dry hot Maltese rocks surrounded by sea and fennel. Finally the alkanet, is something that reminds me of my childhood but I also needed a little flower to dot around the larger ones, and there we go :) ”

— Moira Scicluna Zahra

The characters look at three themes that are new to this edition; community, identity, maternal loss and siblings.

Community is the feeling of being seen and acknowledged by one who understands what you’re going through. It’s that look, a nod or a hand up from another mother who empathizes with what you’re going through at the moment, because she knows what it is like first hand.

Identity is the struggle many new mothers go through as they transition (rather abruptly) into a new role that completely redefines them. Who am I now? Is the old me still inside? How do I discover who I’ve become, and will I love this new person? It’s a rite of passage that can impact us for years.

Maternal loss is the grief of a mother who loses her own mother, how the loss is perceived when one is transitioning into a maternal figure, while lacking the model one has always looked up to. It is certainly not easy, when you’re trying to be strong for your children while feeling the absence of the pillar you’ve always leaned on. A reminder to let our mothers know how much we love them when they are still with us.

Siblings is the theme that proves that love can never be divided, but it can be multiplied.

We hope this new cover strikes a chord with you too - whether it’s the warm and earthy palette, chosen by our designer Sarah, that evokes the embrace of all mums and those who behave as ones, or through the characters. We believe there is something between its pages for everyone to resonate with. Get the perfect gift for every mother to feel seen and appreciated, and continue your collection from last year’s edition.

You’re now able to pre-order Songs of Motherhood - Għanjiet l-Omm Vol II. Limited bundle offers available.

Reserve your copy to ensure Mother’s Day delivery.