What's Happening?
Eugenia Perrella's latest children's book, 'My Home Is in My Backpack,' translated from Spanish by Sally Polson and illustrated by Angela Salerno, tells the story of a family's forced migration. The narrative follows young Clara and her family as they prepare to leave their home, joining a queue of people with bedrolls and backpacks. The book emphasizes the concept of home being more than a physical place, as Clara learns from her father that home is made from the people and things they love. The illustrations, using a palette of blues, golds, and greens, depict the passage of time and the emotional journey of the characters. The book is aimed at children aged 4 to 7 and highlights the invisible things travelers carry in their hearts.
Why It's Important?
This book provides a sensitive portrayal of migration, a topic that is increasingly relevant in today's global context. By focusing on the emotional aspects of leaving home, it offers young readers a way to understand and empathize with those who experience displacement. The story encourages children to see home as a concept tied to love and memories rather than just a physical location. This perspective can foster empathy and understanding in young readers, potentially influencing how they perceive and interact with diverse communities in the future.
