Story Boat

What happens when you are forced to flee the only home you have ever known? Acclaimed storyteller Kyo Maclear takes readers on an epic journey of love, loss and hope in Story Boat.

A little girl and her brother must leave their home in order to find a new one. Even though they have left everything they have ever known behind them, they manage to bring along some treasured items to help them on their journey. Among these pieces are a cup that reminds them of the warmth of home, a blanket that keeps them nice and cozy, and the songs and stories that have carried them to their new home.

An utter masterpiece, Story Boat tackles a very serious issue that affects many children today. Kyo Maclear has managed to describe the hardships that migrants face in the midst of crisis in a poetic way with clear, concise imagery that evokes the fear and pain of leaving everything you have ever known behind. Juxtaposed with Maclear’s lyricism are Rashin Kheiriyeh’s sublime illustrations that offer the reader hope in the midst of devastation. Her choice of colours, particularly the contrast between the pale blue background of her illustrations and the apricot hues of the foreground, really highlight the hope that is at the forefront of the entire story.

Overall, Story Boat is an immensely enjoyable read.