The story has an ageless emotional heart, really, with lovely illustrations, told in a way easily understood by children." - Families Glasgow The words help too–ones like best friend, clutched, gripped, safe, happy face, always, come close. Overall this book makes me feel safe in the middle of intense drama.

It will seamlessly begin a discussion about the harrowing refugee experience, one that can easily incorporate K-W-L charts, Padlet boards or something similar in which children can highlight the many similarities they share with refugees despite distance and circumstances separating us. The dream-like illustrations perfectly encapsulate the uncertainty inherent in Lubna’s refugee experience, yet the tenderness they convey encourages children to feel empathy as they learn about Lubna’s displacement, and awe as they watch Lubna give away the one possession she cherishes most. Lubna’s best friend is a pebble. Pebble always listens to her stories. Pebble always smiles when she feels scared. But when a lost little boy arrives in the World of Tents, Lubna realizes that he needs Pebble even more than she does. 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?This is a wise, gentle story about the possibility of kindness in even the bleakest situations." - LoveReading4Kids 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… Then a little boy arrives to the World of Tents, and he is lost, cold and numb. Lubna introduces the boy to Pebble, and the two become friends in their new, uncertain world. 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. This story prompts so many thoughts! What is the role of imaginary friends in calming us down? What makes me personally feel safe and cared for? What have I read about other objects that help kids through tough times? How do we care for ourselves in times of great stress?

In LUBNA AND PEBBLE, Lubna’s best friend is a pebble, found the night she landed in a World of Tents with her father. Pebble smiles at her when she is scared, and as long as Pebble and her dad are with her, Lubna knows she is safe. Pebble, simply put, is Lubna’s confidante – the only one she has to talk with besides her father. LUBNA AND PEBBLE can be used as a springboard for so many different activities at home or in your classroom! This emotionally stirring and stunningly illustrated picture book explores one girl’s powerful act of friendship in the midst of an unknown situation. Adults know that one of the best things a good book can do is engender empathy in the reader. The beautiful relationships depicted here will touch readers. In addition, this book provides a perfect opening for discussing the ever-growing refugee crisis and the immense challenges faced by displaced people, desperately in need of humanity, compassion and refuge. Finally, this book personalises and dignifies a child and her father. It shows how, even in conditions of deprivation, we can still show love and compassion for others less fortunate. Lubna navigates the challenges of being a refugee: keeping happy—or rather, surviving—and passing the courage on.This small story is huge in compassion, wisdom and inspires us to do more not for just children but all those seeking safety in other lands. 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. 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 tender, understated story honors the emotional resilience of young people." - Horn Book Magazine

This warm and touching picturebook, about a child's kindness to another, features children who have crossed a sea from a war to live in a world of tents. Evocative drawings express sadness and hope." - One to Watch Out For in the Sunday TimesPebble, with its drawn-on eyes and smile, is Lubna’s best friend as they sailed to and arrived at the World of Tents (aka Refugee settlement). Even as her father keeps her close and warm and safe, Lubna keeps Pebble close, warm and safe. Between the two, she seems content. Pebble listens to Lubna’s stories with a comforting smile. Her father is a near constant: close-by, holding her, often smiling. His presence makes the loneliness of Amir’s arrival seem all the more stark. The angle of the illustrations is an intriguing choice. We are most often either at level or looking upward toward Lubna (just shorter than her). There are few overhead. We are kept to some distance, but always close enough and never superior in perspective. I wonder at how this suits the gentle tone the author brings; the angles certainly emphasize the expressive postures of the characters. The rich blue and green tones are soothing; you’re reminded how warm they are when the wintry scenes come to call. One day, however, Lubna’s father announces good news — they have a new home! Thus, they will be leaving the World of Tents — and when it comes time to say goodbye to Amir, Lubna leaves him with the most precious, perfect gift. LUBNA AND PEBBLE is an Absolute Must Have Children’s Book About Refugees — One Every Child Everywhere Should Read!