The Teacup

About this book

A long time ago, a stranger arrived from far away with nothing but a teacup and an old photograph in a suitcase. Since then, the stranger made friends and a home.  

However, when a new stranger arrives, the friends suspect her of being a thief, until one stranger meets another and memories come alive… 

Chris Naylor-Ballesteros’s poignant story about how we treat those unfamiliar to us – and how it feels to be a stranger – is a beautiful and thoughtful tale about belonging and home. The sequel to the international bestseller The Suitcase, The Teacup packs an emotional punch, and the illustration – a little reminiscent of Axel Scheffler – aids that with its simplicity, focusing on the important elements of the story. 

The fact that the stranger’s only possession is a teacup – and one that matches the teacup of the first stranger – acts as a link between them and a symbol of a lost home. 

This evocative story of hope would be a great way to lead into talking to young children about immigration and refugees – and reminds us that everyone has a song to sing about their home. A touching, remarkable book.