A timely tale of one refugee boy's flight to find a place to call home - based on the experiences of real refugee families. Now with a fresh new cover and an original author introduction.

Ghalib doesn't want to leave his home, but it has become too dangerous for his family to stay, and they have no choice but to flee. Together they begin a terrible journey through dark and dangerous places. They come under fire; they are exploited by illegal border-crossers; they endure the wretched uncertainty of life in a refugee camp. And still they must face the perils of a voyage in a boat that is far from seaworthy.

Based on the experiences of real refugee families, A Dangerous Crossing is a story of bravery and solidarity in the face of despair.

About the Author

Jane Mitchell has written several books for children and young people. Her first novel, When Stars Stop Spinning, was Bisto Book of the Year, and her more recent Chalkline won not only a CBI Merit award but also the Children's Choice award. She works in disability provision in Ireland and travels widely, including recently to the refugee camp in Calais.

Reviews

"This heartbreaking story depicts the reality of fleeing war, as told by a 13-year-old boy. Not only is her story told with compassion and understanding, it is also a timely and vital read. Deserving of a place on every school reading list."

-- BookTrust UK

"An important book that deserves to be read in every home and classroom in Ireland"

-- Sarah Webb

"A rich cast of characters and some excellent, taut writing"

-- Books for Keeps

"A timely and stark insight"

-- Children's Books Ireland

"A perceptive portrayal of the Syrian conflict and its decimation of its citizens' lives"

-- The Bookbag

"A small window into the lives of many children who have no chance of a normal childhood and must act as adults to survive daily"

-- Reading Zone

"Mitchell pens a vivid narrative of the displacement, loss, and sheer bravery of Syrian children traversing land and sea, surviving bullets, bombs, and the tumultuous Mediterranean to begin a new life."

-- Kirkus Reviews (for the US edition, 'Without Refuge')

"Mitchell weaves a tale strife with the humanities of pain, joy, family, dreams, youth, age, desperation, emotion, and culture."

-- Emilee Bell, Brigham Young University (for the US edition, 'Without Refuge')

"An eye-opening look into the Syrian Civil War and refugee crisis, told from the unique perspective of a teenage boy"

-- 9-year-old reviewer, LitPick (for the US edition, 'Without Refuge')

"An introduction to understanding what refugees face and what possibilities lie ahead"

-- MSL Book Review (for the US edition, 'Without Refuge')

"Mitchell takes on a sensitive topic with empathy and compassion. ... A great introduction into learning about a highly relevant humanitarian refugee crisis."

-- Booklist (for the US edition, 'Without Refuge')


Awards
Winner of Bank Street Book of the Year 2019 (UK).



Book Information
ISBN 9781912417384
Author Jane Mitchell
Format Paperback
Page Count 240
Imprint Little Island
Publisher Little Island
Weight(grams) 200g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 129mm * 20mm