Noah's New Home
Noah and his mama have made the difficult journey to a new country as refugees after war caused them to leave their old home. Loud fireworks bring back frightening memories for Noah; he is scared and wants to hide away to feel safe.
Facing fears and remembering happier times are handled sensitively both in the text and illustrations with the dialogue and descriptions seamlessness intertwined. The striking and beautiful artwork portrays small everyday moments that evoke happy memories. Drawing with a new friend reminds Noah of jasmine and apple flowers in his old garden and a neighbour’s almond cake reminds him of cakes his Jida made for family picnics and jasmine of his Baba’s hugs. Slowly and with the help of the new community that is growing around him we see a little of the sadness in Noah’s heart is washed away.
This is Noah’s story, and the gorgeous illustrations show us his experience as he navigates school, friends and neighbours and begins to settle and heal in his new home. His new friend Lou gently shows us the importance of kindness and empathy and how the support of a welcoming community can offer both practical support and hope.
The detail and the language are well pitched with lots to open up further discussion about the refugee experience and war. This is an important and powerful book, the beautiful illustrations are at times both stark and evocative of happier times.
