Reviews

This a very nicely written story that introduces children to the idea of refugees needing help in a personal and emotionally engaging way. It's not preachy or even particularly political but it does help to put a human face to an issue that is often discussed in abstract, statistical terms.

I noticed another reviewer accuse the author of having transphobic views, which raises a question over whether it's OK to enjoy her work or not. I don't know the answer if I'm honest. A quick search reveals some quotes from a speech which I thoroughly disagree with but I don't feel like I need to agree with everything an author believes to enjoy their work. But there's a line too and I genuinely don't know if she's crossed it by airing opinions which I find to be pretty nasty (assuming the quotes are genuine).

I think this book, taken on its own merits, is a force for good in the world, as it helps spread the idea of tolerance and helping those in need. On that basis this is a five star book even though the author potentially has views I find problematic.

the_book_of_t's review against another edition

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5.0

A brilliant book to start the new year!
It’s a story that is necessary in today’s society, to help children and young people understand the refugee crisis and the many views of countries in Europe.
The protagonist, being only nine, describes the events after meeting a young boy, Ahmet, a refugee who experienced horrors whilst escaping the ongoing war of Syria.

A brilliant story of, courage, acceptance and friendship.

deaconist's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Reading this because my niece is really engaged with it at school. It's a nice story teaching kids not to be terrible bigots towards people who are different. It's a bit simplistic and far-fetched, but it's for kids - a more realistic story would be a bit bleak for the intended age group.

Only while I was reading this did I find out the author is a vocal transphobe. Pity her anti-bigotry sentiments only extend so far.

sairythefairy's review against another edition

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0.25

Starts off okay but then becomes very unrealistic and ends up focus more on the other characters rather than the refugee themself and becomes quite saviour like. I think it’s a good idea for the story from what i read on the blurb but was executed very badly. I wouldn’t recommend it at all.

bcat0124's review

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adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced

5.0

misskk's review against another edition

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3.0

A sweet and adventurous tale that manages to balance the fantasy of a child's mind and the reality of the world whilst handling heavy topics such as war, oppression, bullying and racism in a delicate and sophisticated manner.

It was a delight to read this story and the ending left me feeling warm.

Of course not everything that happened in this story is realistic but it was eye opening.

I believe this a story that every child and maybe adult should read once.

Edit: I've just found out that the author is Transphobic and I want to say that the message of this story is important. We shouldn't support the author but the art instead but I in no way shape or form condone Transphobia.

your_true_shelf's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

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