Description

The true story of how a simple act of kindness changed a young refugee’s life—from award-winning author Patricia McCormick with Mevan Babakar.

For generations, Mevan and her family lived in their beloved Kurdistan. But when they are forced to flee by the Iraqi government, Mevan must leave everything behind. Her family travels from country to country in search of safety; and with each stop, Mevan feels more and more alone. Until . . . a stranger’s gift changes everything.

Based on Mevan Babakar’s own childhood, this is a moving reminder of how powerful just one act of kindness can be.

About the Author

Patricia McCormick is a former journalist and a two-time National Book Award finalist whose books include Cut, Sold, Never Fall Down, The Plot to Kill Hitler, the young readers edition of I Am Malala, and the award-winning picture book Sergeant Reckless: The True Story of the Little Horse Who Became a Hero. Patricia lives in New York. Visit her online at pattymccormick.com.

Yas Imamura is the acclaimed artist of picture books such as Love in the Library by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, Winged Wonders by Meeg Pincus, and The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy I. Sanders. She currently lives and works in Portland, Oregon. You can visit her at yasimamura.com.

Mevan Babakar is a social entrepreneur, writer, and poet. She was born in Kurdistan and is a former child refugee. Mevan serves as trustee for the UK for UNHCR, the UK arm of the UN refugee agency, and was selected as a 2023 European Obama Leader for her work in protecting democracy. Learn more about her at mevanbabakar.com.

Praise For…

★ "The big impact that a small gift of kindness makes on a child refugee is highlighted in this affecting picture-book memoir. [A]n inspirational push to pedal kindness forward." — Booklist (starred review)

“An important, stirring tale.” — Kirkus Reviews

Praise for SERGEANT RECKLESS: ★ “Vividly brings to life the story of Sergeant Reckless, the only animal to officially hold military rank in the United States. This endearing story of wartime camaraderie won’t soon be forgotten.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

★ “A rousing success. An engaging slice of history.” — Booklist (starred review)

“[An] intriguing historical tale of an underdog. A warm human (and horse) interest story that feels fresh off a newsreel.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Excellent. This well-illustrated war story will appeal to many, especially fans of Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse. A strong selection.” — School Library Journal

“Engaging.” — The Horn Book

“A lively look at wartime animal heroism.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books