9 Books About Refugee Experiences

Let’s be honest…there’s a LOT going on in the world right now. The situation in Ukraine is utterly heartbreaking. I can feel myself holding tension in my body as I try and comprehend the terror and fear Ukrainians on the ground are certainly feeling. I’ve pulled together a collection of books that relate to the situation; albeit indirectly.

All of these books talk about refugee experiences. It’s important to acknowledge that no two experiences are the same, and a picture book cannot accurately convey the anguish and trauma of having to flee one’s home. My hope is that these might provide a way of navigating conversation about displaced people and families on a global scale. The goal in reading is to help kids like mine understand their privilege and safety, while fostering empathy and global awareness.

I’m going to categorize these books by audience; starting with young to old.

Counting Kindness (ages 3-6) is geared for young kids). This book is a good first step for articulating what life might look like for a refugee family. It is light on text, but the way the author explains refugees is done matter-of-factly, but with grace. Carefully chosen words that explain succinctly without sugar-coating or oversimplifying. A great book to begin the conversation with an underlying theme that kindness counts more than anything. Ages 3-6.

Lubna and Pebble (ages 4-8) is a story that subtly addresses the aftermath of a war and a child’s experience as a refugee in a camp far from their home. In addition to her feelings of confusion, Lubna feels loss. Beyond the obvious loss of her home, the loss of her belongings, her routine, and her friends. In an effort to self soothe, Lubna finds a pebble, and it becomes a friendly companion to which she can talk and share feelings with. In reading this story, my kids were able to reflect on their own blessings, and feel empathy for Lubna and the unfortunate circumstance that led to her situation.

My Name is Bana (ages 4-8) is a compelling memoir written by Bana Alabed, a Syrian girl who first gained attention when she wrote on Twitter in 2016, “I just want to live without fear.” When this precocious seven-year-old Bana described the horrors of what her family was experiencing in war-torn Syria on social media, she gave a voice to the millions of children and families impacted by war. The book, written in young Bana’s own words, is both intimate and hopeful, a child’s perspective on the Syrian refugee crisis. In spite of the loss of so many things she held dearly; her friends, her home, her teachers…Bana holds onto hope, for herself and innocent others like herself who deserve peace.

Tani’s New Home (ages 5-9) is based on the author’s own life and experience, Tanitoluwa (Tani) Adewumi was born in Nigeria, and fled to the United States at 6-years old after his family was targeted by the terrorist group, Boko Haram.
His family fortunately was able to stay together, and moved into a homeless shelter in New York City. Tani liked much of his life in America, but missed many things about his old life, including having a home of their own.

At school, Tani learns how to play chess, and is quite good. Through a scholarship program, he’s able to join the team, and at age 8, Tani became the New York chess champion! When an article runs sharing Tani’s story, people wanted to help. Some gave $5 or $10, one stranger even gave them a place to live! This book really resonated with my kids, who I’ve come to learn often associate homelessness only with adults. An inspiring story about hope, and kindness.

Salma the Syrian Chef (ages 5-9) explores the mental health aspect of a refugee story. Salma and her mom are immigrants from Syria, resettled in Vancouver, BC, but the transition has been challenging. Between English classes, job interviews, and missing Salma’s dad back in Syria, Salma’s mom is often depleted, overwhelmed, and sad. Salma thinks perhaps making her mom a traditional Syrian meal might to cheer her up, however she doesn’t know the recipe by heart, or the names of the ingredients in English, or a nearby grocer that might carry the right spices! Luckily, a cast of newcomers in her ELL group are happy to lend a hand.

Salma brings new friends together in an effort to spark hope in her mother. Her intent is to convey that even with change and sadness there can still cause for hope and celebration. Syrian culture is beautifully represented through the meal Salma prepares and a diverse cast of characters speaks to the power of growing your community and supporting others through hard times.

Kunkush (ages 8-12) might appeal more to animal and pet lovers, the story of family cat that became separated from his family when they fled Iraq and became refugees in Europe. Despite thousands of miles and several years, an unlikely reunion happened! Hopeful and heartwarming.

Finding Home (ages 9-12) is more of an infographic fact-filled book that story. As such, it’s a bit more text heavy but still very colorful with illustrations on every two-page spread. People become refugees for a variety of reasons; war zones, political unrest, fear of safety, among others. This book examines how migration has shaped the globe, and current issues facing immigrants and refugees today. Punctuated with first-hand stories of people who have moved across the globe looking for a “better life” including pursuit of safety, security, and happiness. The author who herself is a child of immigrants, is matter-of-fact in showcasing the many challenging realities that immigrants and refugees face in their new homes.

Other Words for Home (ages 9-12) is a middle grade novel written in verse about Jude, a young girl who leaves Syria for the US to live with relatives, though she leaves her father and brother behind. The story captures the overwhelming sensory overload that comes with her move, the loudness of America, the sexuality of American movies, and constantly being labeled, “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But with these changes also come new friends, a whole new family, and learning to be yourself in spite of your environment.

Nowhere Boy (ages 10-14) is a YA novel about fourteen-year old Ahmed, a Syrian refugee who finds himself stranded in Brussels, Belgium, a city that frankly wants nothing to do with him. Cold, hungry, feverish, and desperate, Ahmed finds shelter in an unlocked basement where he holes up, silent and hopeful that his circumstances will somehow change.

Along the way he meets Max, a thirteen-year old expat, who also feels stranded and alone, but for different reasons. Max is also missing his former life as he struggles to fit into his new school, fumbling over the new language and finding himself a prime target for the school bully. The two forge an unlikely friendship as their lives collide and together they learn what it means to be brave, strong, and stand up for what is just. Realistic fiction that is extremely well thought out, planned, and researched. You grow to care for the characters and empathize with their challenges.

Also heard great things about When Stars are Scattered (graphic novel, 9-12 years old), but haven’t read it yet. Any others you’d add to the list?