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Author & Illustrators

A. M. Dassu Books

Short story collection

This is a wonderful collection of stories set in five different countries. Perfect for a rainy autumn day, dip in and be transported far, far away.

To sum it up in five words – epic, stunning, adventure, courage and resilience.

Wow! This book is hugely powerful and packs a punch. It will stay with you for a very long time. The author shares a moving account of the experience of being displaced from one’s home country and the refugee experience.

The fact that Sami’s family are wealthy and educated in Damascus in some ways makes the story even more impactful as their experience could be considered ‘better’ than many also attempting to make the journey. The characters are very well drawn throughout, each battling their own struggles, whilst trying to do what is best for their family in the most challenging of situations. It is a book with huge depth that will generate a lot of important conversations and one that is filled with empathy and small kindness amongst the turmoil and fear.

Best suited for mature readers in the lower years of KS3, this story is a harrowing read. The narrative references bombing, casualties, the journey of a refugee and the conditions and danger they might be forced to endure, the perilous journey over the sea with boats capsising, internment in an immigration centre and an assault, as well as family rejection and the feeling of not belonging and being undervalued in a new country. The emotional turmoil of all members of the family also makes this a necessary and powerful, yet challenging read that will be remembered for a long time after reading.

This was very much enjoyed by EYFS children for the pictures, the story and as an introduction to Eid.

This is a picture book story with an Eid setting rather than an information book about the festival, and the narrative does introduce traditions such as special clothes and gift giving, making it a good way to start to engage the children with the topic.

This sequel to Dassu’s award-winning debut, Boy, Everywhere, finds Ali and Sami living their dream, playing football for the school team and hanging out in their friend Mark’s new luxury pool. But money goes missing and racism rears its ugly head when their friend Aadam is accused of the theft. Can the boys prove Aadam’s innocence, keep their friendship – and help fight Aadam’s threatened deportation? Can Ali navigate his emotions and stay focused now his dad is back on the scene and his half-brother has joined his school? A powerful story about friendship, being an ally and finding your place in the world.

Chapter book

An empowering story about finding your identity and the courage to fight for it. Aaliyah is an ordinary thirteen-year-old living in the Midlands – she’s into her books, shoes, K-pop and she is a Muslim. She has always felt at home where she lives … until a terrorist attack in her area changes everything.

As racial tensions increase and she starts getting bullied, Aaliyah decides to begin wearing a hijab – to challenge how people in her community see her.

But when her school bans the hijab and she is intimidated and attacked for her choices, she feels isolated.

Soon Aaliyah realises that other young people from different backgrounds also struggle with their identity and feel alone, scared and judged. Should she try to blend in – or can she find allies to help her fight back?

Channelling all of her bravery, Aaliyah decides to speak out.

Together, can Aaliyah and her friends halt the tide of hatred rippling through their community?

An essential read to encourage empathy, challenging stereotypes, exploring prejudice, racism, Islamophobia and positive action.

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Stone Girl Bone Girl

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