Book details
Trees in the Pavement (Flamingo Fiction 9-13s)
Description
They were cutting the branches off the trees again.When Zari first arrived in East London, she had wondered about the trees. She had never seen any fields and farms in London, like there were at home in Kosovo. But there were more trees. Or at least you noticed them here. In Kosovo, there were entire forests, but no one thought about them because they were, well, just there.In London, the trees look uncomfortable growing out of the pavement - as if they were refugees in a foreign country, too.Zari's story takes you from the fighting in Kosovo to the concrete streets of the city of London - but there is conflict here too. You can't leave problems behind just because you leave your country as a refugee in the back of a lorry full of cheese! Making friends is a minefield in itself - and the secrets she discovers in the family just add to the trouble.War, peace, faith, and nationality - everything is changing in Zari's life.It's not just the trees that are feeling uncomfortable.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
176 pages
Book in series
#2
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Trees in the Pavement' provides a unique perspective on the refugee experience, offering readers a chance to learn about different cultures and the challenges faced by those seeking asylum. This can foster empathy and understanding in young readers.
- Character Development: The book features strong character development, particularly of the protagonist, which can help readers explore complex emotions and personal growth. This is beneficial for young readers as they navigate their own developmental stages.
- Themes of Hope and Resilience: Despite the difficult circumstances depicted in the story, 'Trees in the Pavement' is ultimately a tale of hope and resilience. It can inspire readers to believe in the possibility of positive change and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
- Engaging Storytelling: Jennifer Grosser's storytelling is engaging and accessible, making it an enjoyable read for the target age group. The narrative is crafted in a way that keeps readers invested in the characters and their outcomes, promoting a love for reading and literature.