The Girl Who Lives Between Two Worlds

Noor has settled into her new life in London and the friends, games, clothes and lifestyle she has there. She feels a sense of anxiety when told by her parents that they will be returning to Palestine. Noor’s feelings capture the emotions of moving and leaving behind all that is familiar to start anew. There’s a repeated phrase which Noor chants to herself which includes a line about being able to belong anywhere. There’s a reassuring quality and a profound message in this.

A number of culturally specific words would have benefitted from a glossary to help make their meaning clear to unfamiliar readers. Mixed-media illustrations help to bring the landscape and architecture of England and Palestine vividly to life, giving depth and added dimensions to this important story about adapting to the changes forced by violence and conflict.

There’s a lot here which will helpfully serve to heighten understanding and empathy.