An Alumna Publishes Her First Children’s Book: A Journey Around the World

Alumna Massara Ojjeh Publishes Her First Children’s Book: A Journey Around the World

For Massara Ojjeh (LGB 2011), growing up in an international environment meant that different cultures, languages, and perspectives were simply part of everyday life. So it’s no surprise that when she came to write her first children’s book The Wonderful Adventures of Topaz and Ruby, she created a story where worlds meet.

Meet Topaz and Ruby, two dogs who travel the world on the back of a pelican explorer, visiting places like India, Japan, Moscow, Madagascar, Paris, and Mexico, among many other countries. In each destination, they meet and interact with local animals, while also discovering iconic landmarks. Each country highlights a main monument, allowing children to learn about the world while enjoying playful conversations between the animals.

We asked Massara what inspired her to write a children’s book and she explained that her two dogs, Topaz and Ruby, were the heart and inspiration behind her series of books for young readers - and for the young at heart. Since writing has always been a passion of hers, telling stories through their eyes feels effortless and natural.

She still remembers a particular afternoon at the park with them - the moment the idea first took shape. As they sat together, she found herself drifting into a daydream, imagining them in a world far beyond their own. That simple moment of imagination stayed with her, growing into something more, until it eventually became her first educational book, The Wonderful Adventures of Topaz and Ruby.

At its core, the story is about curiosity, friendship, and discovering the beauty of the world’s diversity. Through Topaz and Ruby’s journey, children are introduced to different cultures, environments, and animals in a playful and engaging way.

“I hope young readers take away a sense of wonder about the world, as well as an appreciation for differences. The books are also meant to gently encourage learning, showing that education can be an adventure. Most importantly, I hope children feel inspired to imagine, explore, and dream beyond their immediate surroundings.”

Her time at Ecolint was instrumental in shaping her creativity and passion for storytelling. Drawn to art and languages, she found an environment that encouraged her to embrace her strengths. What stayed with her most was how Ecolint encouraged students to embrace what they do best. Supported in developing her creative interests, she gained the confidence to express herself and dive deeper into storytelling.

Will there be more Topaz and Ruby adventures in the future ? Luckily for all the young readers, Massara plans to continue writing children’s books, with Ruby and Topaz set to return for two new adventures in the village of Gstaad - one in summer and one in winter. Looking ahead, she aims to explore themes of global warming and environmental awareness in her upcoming books.

Beyond her books, she also hosts annual colouring ateliers inspired by these stories, giving young readers the opportunity to engage creatively with the characters and their world.
She is also collaborating with international schools to create personalised stories. Most recently, she worked with a school in Kuwait, developing stories based on their core values - an experience she found especially rewarding, as it allowed her to craft meaningful narratives that inspire kindness, responsibility, and a strong sense of community in young readers.

Her advice to students or alumni who are interested in writing their own books: “start simple and begin with what you know and love. Inspiration often comes from everyday life, just as it did for me with my dogs. Don’t overthink it - just start writing and let your ideas flow.

Also, don’t be afraid to be original. Your voice and perspective are what make your story unique. Most importantly, be patient with yourself - writing is a process, and every step is part of the journey.”

With her book now in the hands of young readers, Massara proves that the best adventures don’t always require a suitcase and that exploring the world can start anywhere with just a little imagination and an open mind.