The President’s Cake

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:57:10 +0000

In 1990s Iraq, it’s ‘draw day’, when schools select students for the honour of bringing items to their mandatory local celebrations of President Saddam Hussein’s birthday. Nine-year-old Lamia lives in the historic marshes with her spirited grandmother, Bibi. Before school, Bibi teaches Lamia clever tricks to avoid being chosen for the baking duties. However, when Musa, the authoritative teacher, calls Lamia’s name for the most challenging task–the birthday cake–she has no choice but to accept. Refusing could mean imprisonment or even death.

Mohammed Rheimeh – IDLIX

The President’s Cake