Under the Red Shawl by Vikki Conley illustrated by Martina Heiduczek

I wrote this story to explore the many challenges that our world presents for our children. We all have different homes and places where we live (cities, towns, villages), but for some children they are forced to leave for different reasons, and that can be hard. Vikki Conley

It is interesting to ponder the passing of time in this story. When we first meet Salim he has just been born. He hears the boom boom boom of his mother's heart but there is also the boom boom boom all around. We know this is a dangerous place when we read that the mother and child need to begin their journey to a safer place today. Salim is folded into her beautiful red shawl. 

The journey is long and very difficult through all weathers and landscapes but Mama tells her little son that they will find a place of safety.

"Mama whispered stories about green grass, bouncing balls and laughing children."

Publisher blurb: Starting out in a new place is tough, but friendship, kindness and imagination help Salim, Mama and Donkey discover their new world. In this stunning picture book, by award-winning creators – Vikki Conley and Martina Heiduczek – we journey with Salim as he grows up creating a new life around him. This is a story about a journey, hope and creating fun with the little that you have.

Vikki Conley has brought the reality of the world of the refugee child right into the realm of more fortunate children ... The Bottom Shelf

Teachers Notes from the publisher.

Pair this with these books:

Amira's Suitcase

Tomorrow

I am also keen to find this book.  I am sure I have seen another book about kids who make a ball out of found materials set either in Africa or South America but I can't think of the title.

With older children you might also like to look at these books:

Sea Prayer

A Boy and a Ball