"The extraordinary difference an act of kindness can make is beautifully shown in this empathetic story."
March 2025 Book of the Month
Mevan enjoys a happy childhood surrounded by nature and a loving extended family in Kurdistan, Northern Iraq. With honeysuckle scented air, poetry, delicious treats, and large family meals filled with laughter, her life is nothing short of idyllic. But when the Iraqi leader and his army start targeting and hurting the Kurdish people, Mevan and her parents must leave all that they know and love in the pursuit of freedom and safety.
Through gentle storytelling and Yas Imamura’s evocative illustrations we follow Mevan’s journey through Turkey and Azerbaijan, then to Russia and the Netherlands, until finally her family is granted permission to settle in the UK. Along the journey we witness the hostility her family experience, their sadness at the absence of their beloved relatives and community, and some of the difficulties brought by having little money or security. Understandably, Mevan feels small, different and isolated from her new peers, choosing to hide away at home. But when a kind neighbour recognises her isolation and brings her a bicycle, finally Mevan can feel the wind in her hair and the joy of being a child again.
Handling a difficult subject with understanding and warmth, this is a beautiful book to introduce children to the plight of refugees and how one small act of kindness can make a huge difference. It is an excellent selection for those wishing to help children develop empathy and compassion for those forced to flee their homes. An author’s note from the real life Mevan, explaining more about her journey and life as a refugee, makes the already touching story feel even more real and urgent to readers of all ages.
A story of hope. This book is well written and explains how being kind can change someone's life. The message is powerful and the book is heartfelt and moving.
I read this to my 7 year old and he really enjoyed the story. It is well written, very descriptive and tells the true story of a young refugee called Mevan and her life. The book explains how lonely and isolated she felt. My son listened intently and really liked the message in the story of being kind and how an act of kindness an change someone's life.... Read Full Review
We read it with pleasure and enjoyed every single page and picture of it.
This is a very beautiful book. It brings a very touching and thoughtful message and meaning. Both me and my son enjoyed reading it and trying to imagine what the little girl has been through. A very hard childhood. It is nice to see that good people still exist and that a kind gesture could mean the world to someone.... Read Full Review
This was a good book, it teaches about kindness and this is a really good thing.
This was a good book, it teaches about kindness and this is a really good thing.
It was sad about moving from a house you are used to, but after travelling to different countries to a new home it can be an adventure.... Read Full Review
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