In an unforgettable story that subtly addresses the refugee crisis, a young girl must decide if friendship means giving up the one item that brings her comfort during a time of utter uncertainty.Lubna's best friend is a pebble. Pebble always listens to her stories. Pebble always smiles when she feels scared. But when a lost little boy arrives in the World of Tents, Lubna realizes that he needs Pebble even more than she does.
This emotionally stirring and stunningly illustrated picture book explores one girl's powerful act of friendship in the midst of an unknown situation.
TIME Magazine’s Top Ten Children’s BooksNew York Public Library Best Books for KidsChicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books Pennsylvania Baker's Dozen Book AwardNew York Three Apples nomineeIndiana Read Aloud Master ListKansas NEA Reading Circle Recommended TitlesMaryland Black-Eyed Susan Award nomineeKentucky Bluegrass Book Awards Master ListsWashington Children’s Choice Picture Book Award nominee
Wendy Meddour's debut children's book,
A Hen in the Wardrobe, was shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award for Outstanding First Novel. Wendy is also the author of the Wendy Quill series, which have been translated into over 10 languages. She lives in England.
Daniel Egneus is a Swedish artist who recently illustrated Neil Gaiman's American Gods Quartet as well as the picture books Raven Child and the Snow Witch and The Thing. Daniel lives in Athens, Greece.
“A timely story of displacement, loss, friendship and kindness—universal messages with timeless appeal.”—
Booklist,
starred review “The larger-than-life, almost dreamy illustrations show readers what Lubna sees and feels, and the rawness of both text and images penetrates the heart. . . . A true celebration of the endless creativity and resilience of children.”—
Kirkus Reviews,
starred review
“Spacious, soaring spreads by Egnéus add flashes of imaginative escape to the poignant story by Meddour. . . . The story addresses a difficult subject but stays focused on hope.”—
Publishers Weekly
“Meddour’s short, simple sentences pack an emotional punch. . . . This tender, understated story honors the emotional resilience of young people.”—
Horn Book
“A truly important story about the refugee crisis and the power of friendship. Highly recommended.”—
School Library Journal
