A Dangerous Crossing
by Jane Mitchell
Interest age: 9 to 13
Reading age: 9+
Published by Little Island, 2017
About this book
Ghalib and his cousin are badly injured by a bomb one night while out foraging for a pair of shoes. It is the final straw for his terrified parents, who realise that leaving the country they love may be the only way to keep their children alive. Packing nothing but bare essentials, the family set off on a perilous journey through ruined cities, refugee camps and across the cold, dark sea. Along the way, Ghalib will make friends and lose loved ones.
This heartbreaking story depicts the reality of fleeing war, as told by a 13-year-old boy. Mitchell spent time in refugee camps talking to real Syrian families and has based her well-researched tale on their experiences. Not only is their story told with compassion and understanding, it is also a timely and vital read. Deserving of a place on every school reading list.
More books like this
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Alex Abbott is [Un]Dead
by Louise Austin, illustrated by Katie Kear
9 to 14 years
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Dangerous Animals: Survival Guide
by Sam Hume
7 to 14 years
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Avalanche
by Simon Fox
9 to 14 years
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Nadia Islam, On the Record
by Abida Jaigirdar, illustrated by Avani Dwivedi
9 to 14 years
Lists of recommended reads
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Books about refugees and asylum seekers for older children
Since asylum can be a confusing issue for children (and even adults), here are some books that explore what it really means to flee your home and have to start your life over.