Free as a Bird

Free as a Bird by Barroux is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells a heart-warming story of compassion, friendship, and the plight of refugees.

Jonas, a lighthouse keeper, and his friend Blue, a whale, rescue a tired and bedraggled bird from the sea. The bird has fled from a far-off country, escaping war and danger, and is in desperate need of a safe haven. He misses his home – the smell of jasmine and the trees full of sweet fruit. The narrative is simple yet powerful, making it accessible for young readers while also exploring the complexity of migration. The bird tells his story to Jonas and Blue – his journey to escape danger. A journey that symbolizes the struggles faced by refugees everywhere. The kindness shown by Jonas and Blue highlights the importance of empathy and providing refuge to those in need. There are some similarities between this book and ‘The Journey’ by Francesca Sanna, with Barroux’s use of an actual bird giving it a simpler tone and introducing the notions of refuge and migration through the animal world. Barroux’s illustrations are beautiful: the use of watercolour creates a soft, inviting atmosphere – sploshes of muted colours that complement the story’s gentle tone.

The story is simple but the language sophisticated – using descriptions such as ‘knife-edged waves’ and the ‘veil of war’. This book highlights the importance of kindness and understanding and is a perfect tool for parents and educators to discuss topics like migration, war, refuge and the power of community with children in a sensitive and age-appropriate way. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope and the possibility of finding a place to call home.