The Girl at the Front of the Class

Why doesn’t the new girl in our class want to be friends? She doesn’t smile or join in any of the games. She doesn’t even join in at StoryTime. She draws pictures instead. Adam is determined to break down this barrier and comes up with a solution that is simple but effective. Now Adam and Layla are best friends.

This is a hopeful, positive look at a situation that will be familiar in many classes round the country; the arrival of a refugee child whose memories will be dark. Pippa Curnick’s bold child friendly images emphasise this without diminishing the horror – as do the end papers where sadness and trauma prevail at the start, to the smiles that close the book. The bold colours and solid presence of the protagonists present a recognisable, family, classroom and children. The reality that is presented is believable and reassuring. Onjali’s text has the same character. The storytelling is immediate and direct. The information and explanations offered by the adults to Adam, the boy speaking to the reader, are understandable for a young child. Adam’s proactive response is entirely credible – and appropriate.  The author includes five ideas for welcome in such situations at the end. (These specifically mention refugee children – but would be ideal for welcoming anyone new).