Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Introduce children aged 4–11 to stories that inspire empathy and understanding with our 10 Children’s Books About Refugees and Asylum Seekers. These beautifully illustrated books explore themes of bravery, kindness, and resilience, helping young readers grasp the experiences of refugees in an age-appropriate way. Perfect for families, educators, and libraries, this collection encourages meaningful conversations and fosters compassion for people from all walks of life.
- The Journey
Author: Francesca Sanna
Age Rating: 5-9 years
Description:
The Journey tells the powerful story of a family fleeing their war-torn homeland, facing danger, uncertainty, and loss along the way. Through stunning illustrations, the book captures the emotional and physical toll of their journey, highlighting the challenges refugees face when they search for safety in a new land.
Review:
“The Journey” is such a touching story. I felt so sad for the family, but the pictures were so beautiful. It made me think about how lucky I am to have a safe place to live.” — Sophie, age 8
2. Lubna and Pebble
Author: Wendy Meddour
Age Rating: 4-8 years
Description:
Lubna is a young refugee who finds comfort in a special pebble that she names Pebble. While living in a refugee camp, she befriends a boy named Amir, sharing stories and comforting each other in their uncertain world. The story shows the power of hope, imagination, and friendship in tough times.
Review:
“I really love how Lubna and Pebble became best friends. I think it’s a good story for kids to understand that friends can help us feel safe and happy even in bad times.”
— Elliot, age 6
3. My Name is Not Refugee
Author: Kate Milner
Age Rating: 5-10 years
Description:
This book tells the story of a young boy and his mother, who are forced to leave their home in search of safety. As they journey towards a new place, the boy learns about the difficulties of being a refugee, but also the hope that comes from a loving family.
Review:
“I liked this book because it made me understand how hard it is for people who have to leave their homes. It made me think about how we should always be kind to people.”
— Xavier, age 9
4. The Day War Came
Author: Nicola Davies
Age Rating: 6-10 years
Description:
A young girl’s life is turned upside down when war forces her to leave everything behind and search for safety. The story highlights the emotional impact of war on children and teaches the importance of empathy and compassion when helping others.
Review:
“The book made me really sad because the little girl lost everything. But it also made me want to help people like the girl. It is important to always be nice.” — Isla, age 7
5. Azzi In Between
Author: Sarah Garland
Age Rating: 8-11 years
Description:
Azzi In Between is a graphic novel about a young girl named Azzi who escapes her war-torn home and struggles to adjust to a new life in a different country. Through her eyes, readers experience the refugee experience and the challenges of fitting in a new place.
Review:
“I really liked how this book showed what it’s like to start over in a new country. Azzi’s journey was hard, but she was brave, and I liked how the pictures helped tell her story. It made me think about how refugees feel when they have to leave everything behind.”
— Lucas, age 10
6. Wisp: A Story of Hope
Author: Zana Fraillon
Age Rating: 6-10 years
Description:
Wisp follows Idris, a young refugee living in a dark, oppressive world. He finds a wisp, a tiny spark of light, which represents his memories and hope for a brighter future. The story explores the power of imagination and hope in the face of hardship.
Review:
“I loved the idea of the wisp – it was like the light inside of Idris that helped him feel better. I like this book because it shows that hope can help you even when things are really tough.”
— Maya, age 8
7. Oranges in No Man’s Land
Author: Elizabeth Laird
Age Rating: 9–11 years
Description:
Set during the civil war in Lebanon, Oranges in No Man’s Land tells the story of Ayesha, a brave girl who crosses a dangerous war zone to find medicine for her sick grandmother. Along the way, she learns about courage, survival, and the power of hope.
Review:
“I liked how Ayesha was so brave. She did something hard for her grandmother, and it was exciting to see her figure out how she could do it.” — Ethan, age 10
8. The Boy at the Back of the Class
Author: Onjali Q. Raúf
Age Rating: 9–11 years
Description:
This story follows a group of friends who discover that the new boy in their class is a refugee. As they learn more about his past and help him feel welcome, they uncover the true meaning of kindness and acceptance.
Review:
“I really liked this book because it showed how kids can be kind. I thought it was great how they became friends with the new boy, even though he had a tough time before. It made me want to be kind to everyone.”
— Lily, age 10
9. A Little Piece of Ground
Author: Elizabeth Laird
Age Rating: 9-11 years
Description:
The Little Piece of Ground tells the story of Karim, a Palestinian boy who lives in a refugee camp in the West Bank. As tensions rise around him, he longs for a piece of ground where he can escape and play. The book explores the effects of war on children, resilience, and the need for peace.
Review:
“I liked how Karim tried to stay hopeful even when things around him were not good. It’s sad that he had to live in a camp. It taught me how lucky I am.”
— Amina, age 10
10. The Refugee
Author: Alan Gratz
Age Rating: 9-11 years
Description:
This novel follows three different children from different times and places: Josef, a Jewish boy escaping Nazi Germany; Isabel, a Cuban girl fleeing during the Mariel Boatlift; and Mahmoud, a Syrian boy trying to survive the war in his country. Their stories are interwoven, highlighting the universal experience of being a refugee.
Review:
“The book was really exciting, and I learned a lot about what refugees go through. It was cool how the three stories connected, and I felt like I could understand them more. I really liked how it showed that no matter where you’re from, people are all the same and just want to be safe.”
— Noah, age 10