From Far Away

Author Saoussan Askar was just a child when this story was published in 1995, but it's a powerful message. My family is Lebanese, and the war is a difficult topic. It's hard to fit into a new place when you don't speak the language or understand the customs, but Askar shared her story to show other children that even though it's hard at first, eventually you adapt and learn and make new friends. I love her voice, and the diversity of the other people in the story. I'm always on the lookout for good books to share with my niece, and I'd definitely purchase this one for her.

We have here a vitally important picture book, sharing the message of inclusivity and belonging, combined with art and color pallets that are undeniable in their beauty. Count me in!

This is the true story of a little girl coming to a new world.  Her new world does not have bombs and guns going off, but it does have strange languages, and scary paper skeleton.  I love how this books makes being new easy for others to understand.  It does not try to talk down to the kids it’s meant for, or be too complicated for them to understand.  It is a true tale every one should read.

This wonderful children's story provides a much needed message to Canadians about welcoming young refugees into a country unfamiliar to them, promoting more understanding and acceptance!

Came to this picture book for Rebecca Green, I cannot lie, but the story moved me as much as the illustration did, if not more. The original story was written in 1995, but is still highly relevant today's refugee crisis. As in the UK children who are refugees are often allowed to live in the UK, though are often separated from their parents. In the context of the UK, I think this book would make an impact in how Saoussan's parents are supporting her throughout the novel and through school, and shows the major importance they have in her life, which should be obvious but some British Politicians are yet to be taught basic humanity.

I love the idea of this children's book coming from a real letter. Great art as well.