OUP ISBN 978019 2771940 £10.62
Lubna and her father arrive by boat at a refugee settlement – a “World of Tents” .She picks up a pebble from the beach and draws a happy face on it. The Pebble becomes her friend, and she talks to it about her life. Then she befriends a young boy called Amir who arrives at the settlement. When Lubna’s father tells her he has found them a home, Amir is devastated. Lubna worries and has a sleepless night. In the morning she gives the Pebble to Amir, realising that he needs emotional support. Meddour’s text is simple and powerful, enhanced by Egnéus’ artwork. The picture of the fragile ship at the start of the book is moving. There are evocative close-ups of Lubna’s face which help us to share her perspective. The illustration of Lubna asleep in her “Daddy’s salty arms” arms is powerful as the child is encircled and protected by her father’s body. This is a tender, sensitive story about empathy, being a refugee, strength, loss and friendship. Highly recommended for age 4 – 11.
Brenda Marshall