Lubna and Pebble

Product Information

Another lovely book. The artwork is amazing. I can see this being nominated for a Caldecott. It makes loose allusions, but I think this is about a girl in a refugee camp, but it never says that. A girl ends up somewhere from a boat with her dad. They live in tents and she remembers her family. That is all pretty much alluded too. Lubna finds a pebble on the beach and she befriends it and draws a smile on the pebble. She tells it everything, her memories and fears and hopes. Eventually, another kid shows up and they become friends too. At the end of the story Lubna and her dad are moving on to somewhere and she has to say goodbye to her new friend. The three way chats, in which they are joined by other animals, about web spinning, themselves, other humans—are as often informative as amusing, and the whole tenor of appealing wit and pathos will make fine entertainment for reading aloud, too.

LUBNA AND PEBBLE is the kind of story that teaches and enlightens with the very first read, one that will offer comfort to the multitude of children who have lived Lubna’s experience and nurture empathy in those who have little prior understanding of what it means to be a refugee — to leave your home, your friends, and settle in temporary housing, often tents, while your parents struggle to find a real place to live. And, of course, it is a story of giving, about the power of one act of generosity, and the manner in which one seemingly tiny action can single handedly change a life. Written and illustrated with the lightest touch, this book is perfect for kindergarten on up. LUBNA AND PEBBLE Activities LUBNA AND PEBBLE is an absolute must read. It is one of those special stories that will undoubtedly spark conversation with your kids and students.

Reviews

Another title that we received for OIB was Idriss and his Marble by René Gouichoux with illustrations by Zaü (StarBerry Books, 2019). Just like Lubna, Idriss has one marble to keep him company as his mother and he flee danger and travel to safety. Idriss’ small marble helps him dream and imagine a better life. It is interesting the both of these picturebooks depict how a small object can bring such happiness to young children. Furthermore, both objects help the children take action like you mention Susan and even help them make friends. Pairing both of these titles together could be really interesting. This little book in very few words provides children with a deep understanding of what it is like to lose your home to war, seek safety in your dad and a pebble, provide comfort and solace to a fellow little person who is also displaced and be able to say goodbye with grace and gratitude. My goodness ! Thank goodness ! I did not yet try to read this to cousin's children as I sobbed uncontrollably the first read, cried sweetly on the second read and was even tearful on the third read.

The story has an ageless emotional heart, really, with lovely illustrations, told in a way easily understood by children." - Families Glasgow Lubna and Pebble is a collaboration between Wendy Meddour and Daniel Egnéus has resulted in a lovely and timely book. Lubna’s best friend and confidante is a pebble called Pebble. Lubna feels safe in the World of Tents with Pebble by her side and Daddy to watch over her. When Amir arrives, friendless and alone, Lubna knows what to do… This tender, understated story honors the emotional resilience of young people." - Horn Book Magazine SUSAN: I have read a lot of children’s books that deal with the refugee experience, and there is something unique about this one. The focus of the story is not on the trauma of having to suddenly leave your home or lose your mother, though those themes are present in the narrative. Instead the focus is on friendship, care and safety. The close-ups hone in on sheltering arms, a comfortable cozy “bed” for Pebble. The overall effect is the safe care Lubna gives Pebble.As this enchanting story progresses, Lubna meets a new friend, a fellow refugee named Amir. Lubna befriends him and introduces pebble to him. They play hide and seek together and keep each other company while their families wait in the “World of Tents.” Eventually, Lubna’s family finds a new home and Lubna has mixed feelings about leaving Amir. Before her family moves on Lubna passes on the gift that has helped her through hard times. Hopefully Amir will find the same fortune with pebble. LUBNA AND PEBBLE is a stunning story about the refugee experience — specifically, a portrait of life as a child refugee — that is as harrowing as it is beautiful. It is an ode to the power of good deeds, friendship and a compassionate, kind heart. Why Read LUBNA AND PEBBLE? Spacious, soaring spreads by Egneus add flashes of imaginative escape to the poignant story by Meddour." - Publishers Weekly