Picture Book Month Day 18

Sometimes the back story which explains how a picture book came to be written or illustrated can be just as interesting as the book itself. This is certainly true for Stepping Stones: A refugee family's journey.

This book was published in 2017 in Canada. I am so thrilled to report that it is still in print and available here in Australia for a really good price.  By chance Margariet Rurrs saw the art of Nizar Ali Badr. She persevered through language and distance issues and made contact with him. Together they have created an amazing picture book.

The other wonderful aspect of this book is the use of dual languages on each page - English and Arabic. You will want to pair this with a wonderful Australian picture book -  Mirror by Jeannie Baker.

Here are some review comments:

An astonishing book that allows the humanity of refugees to speak louder than politics and introduces readers to one of Syria's incredible artists. Kirkus Star review

This is a heartfelt and essential book that allows families and schools to share the plight of refugees worldwide and inspire compassion and understanding in children. Kids' Book Review

Here are some other books that explore the war in Syria (picture books and novels):

Tomorrow

No Ballet Shoes in Syria

A House without Walls

Azzi in Between

Fox Girl and White Gazelle