Partners & Supporters
When the Moon Becomes Full
Ḥīna yaktamil al-qamar | حين يكتمل القمر
At Agafay Books, we publish books that are real and speak about Moroccan reality, so that every child and young adult can find themselves in what they read
In Morocco, many girls reach puberty without knowing what is happening to their bodies. Traditionally, knowledge about the menstrual cycle is passed on through conversations between mothers and daughters, or grandmothers and granddaughters. Yet, in many families and communities, periods remain a source of shame and stigma. Girls are left with unanswered questions, feeling ashamed of a natural part of growing up. That shame can make it harder to ask for help and leave them struggling in silence.
Since 2017, Project Soar has been helping girls understand their bodies and manage their periods by combining menstrual health education with access to reusable menstrual products. Their work fosters period-positive environments where girls gain the knowledge and confidence to care for their menstrual and mental health.
Together, we created حين يكتمل القمر, a book that answers the questions girls ask, and the ones they are afraid to ask. It helps them understand their bodies and face the shame with confidence. The text comes from Project SOAR's work in the field, and the illustrations are by Nohaila Chakir.
The book follows the everyday life of Aziza, a Moroccan girl living in the Atlas Mountains and attending a public school, as she navigates puberty and her first period. It includes words in Darija, so that readers recognise the way they speak at home.
The book will be distributed free of charge by Project SOAR in its field work. Agafay Books will also sell it in bookshops across Morocco, so that parents can give their daughters a tool that makes growing up easier.
English and French editions are in preparation. They are a way to share our traditions beyond Morocco and to support girls in the Moroccan diaspora.
