Welcome

Hardly a day goes by without there being something in the news about asylum seekers and what we as a nation should be doing. Perhaps we should take a leaf out of this book which has Squirrel opening the door with the words, ‘Inside this book, we make everyone welcome.’ Squirrel and friends do everything they possibly can to make certain that no-one feels left out or unwanted because as they say, ‘We all help to make a happy world.’

Axel Scheffler’s scenes, be they large or small, show very different characters having fun doing things together: they draw, sit and converse, walk hand in hand and have tea and snacks, choose games to play and communicate visually with those who speak a different language. Shared games and stories make newcomers feel they’re part of the community; so too does allowing them to be the helpers in some situations. Assuredly there will be instances when someone gets upset and cross, but if everybody apologises, the friendships will become stronger. Being there for one another is at the heart of everything.

‘Now, imagine if the whole world was like this book – if everyone was kind and helpful and welcomed everyone else. Doesn’t that sound good?’ Most definitely but unfortunately this isn’t so yet for all humans: if only everybody could emulate that animal community – open-hearted, kind, ready and willing to make a difference.

A wonderfully uplifting celebration of empathy, kindness and togetherness. “Imagine if every single one of us did something small to help? Together we could make a big difference. Anybody buying a copy of the book is helping to make a difference because Three Peas charity (which gives vital practical help to those who have had to flee their homes) receives a donation. If you’re a parent get a copy for your family; if you’re a teacher, buy one for your class: share it and discuss ways you might emulate Alison and Axel’s welcomers.