Ana S. Gad Publishes Inclusive Fairytale “Sara and the White Dragon” Featuring a Girl with Down Syndrome

Dubai-based Serbian author and multidisciplinary creative with PhD in Literature, Ana S. Gad announces the release of her new children’s fairytale, Sara and the White Dragon, a gentle and empowering story whose heroine is a young girl with Down syndrome. Centering a child with a disability as the brave savior of her community, the book invites children and adults alike to rethink what true strength, courage, and beauty look like. The Arabic edition of the book was published by Ukiyoto Publishing.

Set in the enchanting Sun-Kissed Valley, the story follows Sara, a sensitive girl with almond-shaped eyes and a heart “as pure as gold.” While some villagers do not understand her, Sara finds comfort in nature and has a special gift for connecting with flowers, birds, and the world around her. When a grief-stricken White Dragon swallows the sun and plunges the valley into darkness, it is Sara’s empathy and unwavering kindness that reach his wounded heart and persuade him to return the light to the sky. Together, the girl and the dragon transform fear into friendship and prejudice into acceptance.

“Through Sara, I wanted to show that having Down syndrome does not limit a child’s capacity to love, heal, and lead,” says Ana S. Gad in the author’s note. “This book is a tribute to all children who are seen as ‘different’ and to the families and teachers who believe in their light.”

More than a classic “once upon a time” tale, Sara and the White Dragon is designed as a conversation starter for families, educators, and therapists who wish to talk with children about disability, bullying, empathy, and inclusion in a gentle, hopeful way.

In this story, the White Dragon serves as a symbol of diversity—representing suppressed groups, misunderstood communities, and all those who differ from the majority. His pain, loneliness, and longing for understanding mirror the struggles faced by people who do not fit social expectations, reminding readers that difference is not a threat but a source of richness and wisdom.

The author’s inspiration for creating a heroine with Down syndrome is deeply personal. As a child, Ana S. Gad lived near a girl with Down syndrome who left a lasting impression on her—sweet-natured, kind, and incredibly hardworking. This early experience shaped Gad’s lifelong admiration for people with Down syndrome and her desire to portray them with dignity, tenderness, and strength.

Key themes and messages of Sara and the White Dragon:

• Positive, respectful representation of a girl with Down syndrome as the main hero

• The power of empathy to heal pain and trauma

• Moving from fear and prejudiceto understanding and acceptance

• Celebrating difference as a source of wisdom and magic

• The importance of kindness, friendship, and community support

“Every child deserves to see a hero who looks and feels like them,” adds Gad. “My hope is that Sara will help children with Down syndrome feel seen—and help their peers see them with more love and respect.”

Ana S. Gad (Dr. Ana Stjelja)

About the Author

Ana S. Gad (Dr. Ana Stjelja) is a Serbian-born writer, poet, translator, and visual artist based in Dubai, UAE. Her work often explores themes of identity, belonging, and silent forms of courage, weaving together words and images to create emotionally resonant stories for children and adults. Sara and the White Dragon continues her commitment to inclusive storytelling that gives space and voice to those who are often overlooked.

Book can be found at this link