Are you looking for a way to teach your kids about empathy and the refugee experience? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on refugees for kids that will open their hearts and minds to the world beyond their own. These captivating stories will not only educate, but also inspire compassion and understanding. Let’s dive into these powerful tales of courage, resilience, and hope.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Refugees For Kids
- 2 The Journey
- 3 The Color of Home
- 4 The Journey of Little Charlie
- 5 The Only Road
- 6 The Red Pencil
- 7 The Unforgotten Coat
- 8 Four Feet, Two Sandals
- 9 The Arrival
- 10 Inside Out and Back Again
- 11 The Bone Sparrow
- 12 The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World
- 13 The Journey of the Noble Gnarble
- 14 The Treasure Box
- 15 The Unwanted: Stories of the Syrian Refugees
- 16 Refugee
- 17 I’m New Here
- 18 Joseph’s Big Ride
- 19 Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family’s Journey
- 20 My Name Is Not Refugee
- 21 The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Refugees For Kids
The Journey
by Francesca Sanna
The Journey by Francesca Sanna is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about the experience of a family forced to flee their home due to war. This compelling book on refugees for kids takes readers on a journey filled with fear, uncertainty, and hope as the family travels through dangerous landscapes and encounters new cultures in search of safety. Through stunning artwork and powerful storytelling, Sanna captures the emotional impact of displacement and the resilience of the human spirit. This refugees for kids book is a timely and important read that introduces young readers to the realities faced by millions of families around the world. The Journey is a must-read book about refugees for kids that encourages empathy, understanding, and compassion.
The Color of Home
by Mary Hoffman
The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about a young refugee boy named Hassan. The story follows Hassan as he struggles to adjust to his new life in a foreign country after fleeing his war-torn homeland. Through vibrant and emotive illustrations, the book captures Hassan’s journey as he finds solace in art and begins to embrace his new surroundings. The book sensitively addresses themes of displacement, loss, and the universal need for belonging, making it a powerful and important read for children. With its touching narrative and visually striking artwork, The Color of Home is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking book about refugees for kids.
The Journey of Little Charlie
by Christopher Paul Curtis
The Journey of Little Charlie is a compelling historical fiction novel by Christopher Paul Curtis. Set in the 1850s, the story follows the journey of a young boy named Charlie as he is forced to accompany a cruel bounty hunter to capture runaway slaves. As he embarks on this dangerous mission, Charlie begins to question his own beliefs and the injustice of the world around him. The book explores themes of compassion, empathy, and the struggle for freedom. It is a powerful and thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on the experiences of refugees for kids during the time of slavery. Curtis’s masterful storytelling and vivid characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in a book about refugees for kids and the historical struggles they faced.
The Only Road
by Alexandra Diaz
The Only Road is a gripping and heart-wrenching book about a young boy’s harrowing journey as an immigrant. Written by Alexandra Diaz, this powerful novel follows the story of a young boy named Jaime who is forced to flee his home in Guatemala due to gang violence. Along with his cousin, Ángela, Jaime embarks on a dangerous and uncertain journey to the United States in search of safety and a better life. This compelling book sheds light on the hardships and struggles faced by refugees, making it an important read for children and adults alike. The Only Road is a poignant and timely book about refugees for kids, offering a compassionate and eye-opening look at the experiences of those seeking refuge and asylum.
The Red Pencil
by Andrea Davis Pinkney
The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney is a poignant and powerful book about a young Sudanese girl named Amira who dreams of going to school and becoming a teacher. However, her life is turned upside down when violence and conflict force her and her family to flee their village and seek refuge in a refugee camp. Through beautiful and evocative poetry, Amira’s journey unfolds as she finds solace and hope in the act of drawing with a red pencil. This moving story provides a window into the experiences of children affected by war and displacement, and the universal desire for education and a better future. The Red Pencil is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and insightful book about refugees for kids.
The Unforgotten Coat
by Frank Cottrell Boyce
The Unforgotten Coat by Frank Cottrell Boyce is a heartwarming and poignant story that follows the journey of two Mongolian refugee brothers, Chingis and Nergui, as they adapt to their new life in England. The book beautifully captures the themes of friendship, belonging, and the power of storytelling. Readers will be immersed in the brothers’ world as they navigate cultural differences and the challenges of being refugees. Through the use of magical realism and vivid imagery, the author paints a vivid picture of the boys’ experiences, making it a captivating read for children and adults alike. The Unforgotten Coat is a must-read for anyone interested in a touching and insightful exploration of the refugee experience.
Four Feet, Two Sandals
by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed
Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed is a heartwarming book about two young girls, Lina and Feroza, who meet in a refugee camp in Pakistan. They both find one sandal each and decide to share them, forming a beautiful friendship. As they wait for a new pair of donated shoes, they learn about each other’s lives, hopes, and dreams. The story beautifully captures the resilience and friendship that can blossom even in the most challenging circumstances. This book is a wonderful way to introduce young readers to the experiences of displaced people and the power of compassion. With its vibrant illustrations and compelling storytelling, Four Feet, Two Sandals is an essential read for children and a great conversation starter about empathy and understanding. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a touching book about refugees for kids.
The Arrival
by Shaun Tan
The Arrival by Shaun Tan is a remarkable wordless graphic novel that tells the story of a man who leaves his family to seek a better life in a new and unfamiliar land. Through stunning and evocative illustrations, Tan captures the emotional journey of leaving behind everything familiar, facing uncertainty, and finding hope in a new world. It’s a powerful and immersive book about migration, displacement, and the resilience of the human spirit. This book about refugees for kids is a poignant and timely exploration of the universal themes of home, belonging, and the human experience. The Arrival is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the experiences of immigrants, refugees, and displaced people, and it’s a perfect introduction to these complex and important topics for young readers.
Inside Out and Back Again
by Thanhha Lai
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai is a poignant and captivating novel in verse that tells the story of 10-year-old Hà, a young girl forced to flee her war-torn home in Vietnam and start anew in America. This heartfelt and beautifully written book about refugees for kids explores Hà’s journey as she struggles to adapt to a new language, culture, and way of life. Through Hà’s eyes, readers gain a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by refugees for kids as they navigate the complexities of displacement and adjustment. Inside Out and Back Again is a powerful and moving story that celebrates resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a compassionate and enlightening perspective on the refugee experience.
The Bone Sparrow
by Zana Fraillon
The Bone Sparrow by Zana Fraillon is a poignant and powerful book about the plight of refugees for kids. The story follows a young boy named Subhi who has spent his entire life in a refugee camp, where he has only known the world inside the fences. When he meets a girl from the outside, their friendship leads to a discovery that changes everything. Through beautiful prose and heartfelt storytelling, this book about refugees for kids sheds light on the struggles and resilience of those living in refugee camps. Zana Fraillon’s compelling narrative offers a compassionate and important perspective on the refugee experience, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the challenges faced by displaced children around the world.
The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World
by Katie Smith Milway
The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World by Katie Smith Milway is an inspiring book about refugees for kids that tells the true story of a group of children in a refugee camp who find joy and hope through the power of play. The story follows a young boy named Deo, who uses his resourcefulness and creativity to make a soccer ball out of banana leaves, bringing together children from different backgrounds to play and bond. Through this simple act of play, the children find a sense of normalcy and community in the midst of their difficult circumstances. This heartwarming book on refugees for kids highlights the resilience and strength of children in challenging situations and emphasizes the transformative power of play in bringing people together.
The Journey of the Noble Gnarble
by Daniel Errico
The Journey of the Noble Gnarble, written by Daniel Errico, is a heartwarming book about a small fish with big dreams. Gnarble is determined to reach the top of the reef, but faces many obstacles along the way. Through perseverance and determination, Gnarble learns important lessons about courage, friendship, and the power of believing in oneself. This beautifully illustrated book is a perfect read for young readers, as it introduces important themes of resilience and overcoming challenges. It’s a great choice for parents and educators looking for a book about refugees for kids that teaches empathy and understanding. The Journey of the Noble Gnarble is a wonderful addition to any child’s library, offering valuable lessons in a captivating and engaging way.
The Treasure Box
by Margaret Wild
The Treasure Box by Margaret Wild is a poignant and heartwarming book on refugees for kids. It tells the story of a young boy and his father who flee their war-torn country, carrying with them only a cherished book. As they seek safety and a new home, the boy’s father shares the stories from the book, providing comfort and hope during their difficult journey. This book about refugees for kids beautifully illustrates the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. With its touching narrative and stunning illustrations by Freya Blackwood, The Treasure Box is a must-read for children, offering a gentle and compassionate introduction to the experiences of refugees for kids. It is a timely and important addition to any library, promoting empathy and understanding for those seeking refuge.
The Unwanted: Stories of the Syrian Refugees
by Don Brown
The Unwanted: Stories of the Syrian Refugees by Don Brown is a powerful graphic novel that sheds light on the experiences of displaced individuals. This compelling book on refugees for kids is a poignant account of the Syrian refugee crisis, depicting the harrowing journey of families fleeing their homes in search of safety. Through striking illustrations and concise narratives, Brown captures the resilience and struggles of these individuals as they navigate through unimaginable circumstances. The book about refugees for kids not only educates young readers about the harsh realities of displacement but also emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. The Unwanted is a necessary and impactful refugees for kids book that encourages conversations about compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Refugee
by Alan Gratz
Refugee by Alan Gratz is a gripping and thought-provoking book about the harrowing journeys of three young refugees from different time periods and parts of the world. The story follows Josef, a Jewish boy escaping Nazi Germany in the 1930s; Isabel, a Cuban girl fleeing the Castro regime in the 1990s; and Mahmoud, a Syrian boy seeking safety from the ongoing civil war in 2015. Through their individual struggles and experiences, the book sheds light on the universal themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Refugee is a compelling and eye-opening read that offers a poignant and timely exploration of the refugee experience, making it an essential book for young readers to gain a deeper understanding of the plight of displaced individuals around the world.
I’m New Here
by Anne Sibley O’Brien
I’m New Here by Anne Sibley O’Brien is a heartwarming book about three young immigrants adjusting to life in a new country. Through the eyes of Maria from Guatemala, Jin from South Korea, and Fatimah from Somalia, young readers are introduced to the challenges and triumphs of starting over in a new place. The story beautifully captures the experiences of children who are newcomers, or as the author calls them, “newcomers.” With its vibrant illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, this book offers a gentle and empathetic introduction to the experiences of immigrants and refugees for kids. It provides a wonderful opportunity for children to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse backgrounds of their peers. I’m New Here is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and educational book about newcomers for young readers.
Joseph’s Big Ride
by Terry Farish
Joseph’s Big Ride by Terry Farish is a heartwarming and inspiring book about a young refugee boy who embarks on a journey to find a new home. Set in the United States, this captivating story follows Joseph as he navigates the challenges of adjusting to a new culture and learning a new language. With the help of a friendly neighbor and his beloved bike, Joseph discovers the power of resilience and determination as he overcomes obstacles and finds hope for the future. This beautifully written and illustrated book offers a poignant and relatable portrayal of the refugee experience, making it a must-read for children and families seeking to understand and empathize with the journey of refugees. Joseph’s Big Ride is a powerful and timely addition to the collection of children’s literature that addresses the importance of compassion and understanding towards displaced individuals.
Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family’s Journey
by Margriet Ruurs
Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family’s Journey by Margriet Ruurs is a poignant and beautifully illustrated book about a family’s experience as they flee their war-torn country and seek asylum in a new land. This book about refugees for kids captures the emotions and challenges of displacement, resilience, and hope through the eyes of a young girl named Rama. Readers will follow Rama and her family as they face the hardships of leaving their home, navigating dangerous journeys, and adjusting to life in a new country. The story is told in simple, yet powerful language, making it an ideal refugees for kids book to introduce young readers to the refugee experience. With its heartfelt storytelling and evocative artwork by Nizar Ali Badr, Stepping Stones is a must-read for anyone looking for a compassionate and insightful way to discuss the topic of refugees with children.
My Name Is Not Refugee
by Kate Milner
My Name Is Not Refugee by Kate Milner is a poignant and beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces young readers to the topic of displacement and immigration. The story follows a young boy who is forced to leave his home and embark on a journey to a new country. Through his eyes, children gain insight into the challenges and emotions experienced by refugees, making it an important book about refugees for kids. The book provides a sensitive exploration of the refugee experience, promoting empathy and understanding. With its engaging narrative and captivating artwork, My Name Is Not Refugee is a valuable resource for starting conversations about this important and timely topic with young readers.
The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle
by Victoria Williamson
The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle by Victoria Williamson is a heartwarming book about refugees for kids that tells the story of two girls from very different backgrounds who form an unlikely friendship. Reema, a Syrian refugee, and Caylin, a Scottish girl, find common ground through their love of running and their shared experiences of loss and displacement. As they train for a race together, they navigate the challenges of their new lives and learn to understand and support each other. The refugees for kids book deals with important themes such as friendship, empathy, and the resilience of the human spirit. The author weaves a poignant and uplifting narrative that will resonate with young readers and open their hearts and minds to the experiences of refugees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about Refugees For Kids offer powerful and important stories that can help children develop empathy, understanding, and compassion for refugees around the world. Through these books, young readers can gain insight into the experiences of refugees and learn about the universal themes of resilience, hope, and the importance of home. By exploring these stories, children can broaden their perspectives and become more aware of the global refugee crisis. These books are essential for sparking meaningful conversations and promoting empathy in young readers.
Which Refugees For Kids book is best?
The best book on Refugees For Kids can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Journey by Francesca Sanna,
- The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman,
- The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Refugees For Kids?
For those looking to learn about Refugees For Kids, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Journey by Francesca Sanna,
- The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman,
- The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis,
- The Only Road by Alexandra Diaz,
- The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney,
- The Unforgotten Coat by Frank Cottrell Boyce,
- Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed,
- The Arrival by Shaun Tan,
- Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai,
- The Bone Sparrow by Zana Fraillon
These books offer a range of perspectives on Refugees For Kids, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Refugees For Kids?
The best books on Refugees For Kids include:
- The Journey by Francesca Sanna,
- The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman,
- The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World by Katie Smith Milway,
- The Journey of the Noble Gnarble by Daniel Errico,
- The Arrival by Shaun Tan,
- The Unforgotten Coat by Frank Cottrell Boyce.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Refugees For Kids are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Refugees For Kids books of all time?
Choosing the best Refugees For Kids books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Journey by Francesca Sanna,
- The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman,
- The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney,
- The Arrival by Shaun Tan,
- The Bone Sparrow by Zana Fraillon,
- The Journey of the Noble Gnarble by Daniel Errico,
- and The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World by Katie Smith Milway.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Refugees For Kids and continues to be influential today.