Vendor
	Fritz Agency Christian Dittus
Original language
English
Categories
Books for very young children, children’s picture books & activity books

THE GARDEN

Meghan Ferrari

Fifteen-year-old Elias and his family are caught in the middle of an international conflict - the deadly crossfire between the Syrian Army and government-opposed Rebels. Dangers mount, conditions worsen, and after witnessing the tragedy of war and the indignities of a refugee camp, Elias finds himself a newcomer in North America where he comes face to face with completely new battles - culture shock, racism, and bullying. Inspired by the stories of her newcomer students and their families.

The Garden is a poignant yet inspiring young adult novel that sheds light on the social impact of modern military conflict and the plight of innocent victims displaced by it. It will also provide young readers with empathy, respect, and a new understanding of new neighbors uprooted by war.

Available products
Book Published 2019-02-01 by Red Deer Press

Comments

The chapters alternate in setting, first between Syria and Canada, then between a refugee camp in Lebanon and Canada. One might expect the Syria and Lebanon sections to be presented in the past tense, with the Canadian sections in the present, but the entire novel is in the present. Switching back and forth from then to now is a smart narrative choice, not only because it allows for cliff-hangers that make readers want to read on, but also because it gives readers a respite after chapters full of action, drama and tension.. -- Highly recommended. -- CM Magazine

This brief novel is a powerful testimonyinspiring and tear-jerking at timesto the plight of refugees looking forward to a new life while attempting not to forget those they met in the journey and had to leave behind. Poignant. Read more...