Bookmarks: Picture Books About Refugees

One of the best ways to gain empathy for others is by stories. If you read Voices from Syria and want to share refugee stories with your children here are several picture books about children who had to flee their home. Some of these stories took place many years ago, others are more recent, but each one tells the story of courage and friendship. These books were all available at my public library, but some I've enjoyed so much that I've added them to our home library.

Passage to Freedom: The Sugihara Story by Ken Mochizuki, illustrated by Dom Lee

Hundreds of Jewish refugees are gathering at the Japanese consulate in Lithuaia to request visas. When the Japanese government refuses to give the visas, Sugihara and his family make a crucial decision that will save the lives of thousands. An amazing true story from World War 2.

The Blessing Cup, written and illustrated by Patricia Polacco

We love Polacco's books. She is known best for her heartwarming stories about her family. The Blessing Cup records their journey from Russia and the kindest that was shown to them.

How I Learned Geography, written and illustrated by Uri Shulevitz

Fleeing from the war in their homeland, they now face poverty and hunger in a strange land. But instead of bread, Father brings home a map. A childhood memory from World War 2.

My Name Is Sangoel by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed, illustrated by Catherine Stock

Because he is a refugee, Sangoel arrived in America from Sudan with not much more than his family and his name. No one can pronounce his name until Sangoel comes up with a creative solution.

One Green Apple by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Ted Lewin

A young Muslim immigrate joins her class on a field trip to an apple orchard. Ted Lewin is one of my all-time favorite children's book illustrators. The watercolors take you to a sunny fall day and the story reminds us of the power of shared laughter.

My Name Is Yoon by Helen Recorvits, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska

Yoon loves her Korean name and its happy dancing figures but her father says she needs to learn to write her name with English letters. At her new school, Yoon tries out some new names. A special book about adjusting to a new country.

Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed, illustrated by Doug Chayka

When relief workers bring clothing to Lina's refugee camp in Pakistan, she is thrilled to find a beautiful sandal that fits perfectly. But another girl has claimed the matching sandal. Will the two girls find a way to share the sandals? A sweet story of friendship.

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