Written and illustrated by Sarah Garland.

Suitable for primary/intermediate age

This story is presented as a comic/graphic book. It begins in a city in the Middle East. There, despite an encroaching war, Azzi and her family endeavour to maintain everyday life. One evening, a phone call alerts them to imminent danger. They grab precious belongings and flee. Azzi is devastated that her grandmother chooses to stay and look after the home. The story follows Azzi’s treacherous journey through the mountains, past check points, and over dangerous seas. Finally, the family arrives in a new and safe country.

Small acts of human kindness soften their loss and ease the transition. Azzi worries about her first day at school. Her fears are allayed when she is greeted in her own language, by a teacher-aide, Sabeen. With the support of Sabeen, a wise teacher and classmate Lucy, Azzi begins to find her place.

The story gives us insight into the long and difficult journey for refugee families. In a new country, the family share a tiny apartment, worry about their grandmother and others left behind and anxiously await work permits and confirmation that they can stay. When the class decide to plant a garden, Azzi brings beans from her homeland. These flourish and signal new beginnings. Grandmother joins them and the long-awaited papers finally arrive. This is an exquisite and engaging story. A Google search takes the reader to a free video-audio version and teaching resources. A highly recommended book.

Reviewed by Janet Pereira

Written by Coral Vass and illustrated by Christina Huynh

Suitable for early and middle primary school age

This beautifully illustrated story is about a grandma who loves all kinds of shoes. However, the treasured shoes are those from grandma’s childhood. These are, ‘her worn and torn shoes, from a long time ago and a land far away.’ These shoes take the reader on a journey from a peaceful village in Vietnam, to a time of conflict and fear, fleeing over land and sea to the safety of a new country.

At the back of the book, key words like asylum seeker are explained. There are also detailed background notes about and photos of Australian refugees. Vass’s hope is that this story will build empathy towards refugees in Australia. Huynh’s illustrations are inspired by stories of her own family’s experience as refugees. Highly recommended./p>

Reviewed by Janet Pereira