The President's Cake

Overview

In 1990s Iraq, it’s ‘draw day,’ a time when schools pick students to gather items for the obligatory celebrations of President Saddam Hussein's birthday. Nine-year-old Lamia resides in the ancient marshlands with her lively grandmother, Bibi. Prior to school, Bibi shares clever strategies with Lamia to help her dodge the baking responsibilities. However, when Musa, the strict teacher, announces Lamia’s name for the daunting task of making the birthday cake, she finds herself with no option but to comply. Declining could lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment or worse.