What a beautiful and haunting book. This story of a family that loses its home and father to war and must set out for a safer home might not be a soothing bedtime tale, but for a child curious about the word “refugee,” I can hardly think of a more delicate and powerful introduction. Safety, sorrow, hope, and terror—for both children and parents—all find expression in a simple but concrete story and in Sanna’s exquisitely evocative illustrations of piled-up suitcases, perilous sea journeys, and border walls. Parents might find themselves rereading its pages after their children have gone to bed. (4 and up)
—Tom Nissley, Phinney Books, Seattle, WA
Phinney highlighted this meaningful picture book earlier as their kids’ book of the week, but this week’s newlsetter features it again in their inspired “Resist List.” Find galvanizing books at Phinney Books and other independent bookstores. While you’re picking up The Journey, ask your favorite bookseller to reserve a copy of The Map of Good Memories by Fran Nuao; it comes out Mary 14 and is a wonderful way to keep the conversations going.