And so begins the intimate story of a young refugee girl who is forced to leave her homeland to escape violence and seek asylum in a new land.
This picture book, short-listed by the Children’s Book Council of Australia, is a precious resource for any parent who would like to educate a child about the real experiences of “boat people” by giving life to a young character who speaks of her journey to a new future, whilst being haunted by her past.
It provides context to traditional life in the Middle East whilst encapsulating Ziba’s sincere feelings of uncertainty and her hopes for freedom.
As the refugee “crisis” continues to dominate mainstream media, Ziba Came on a Boat imparts empathy, humility and understanding to young readers who will grow respectfully from encountering this book.
