Mishka

Winner of the National Book Award for Children’s Literature in the Netherlands!

A tender, lyrical story of an Afghani girl finding a new home, new friends, and refuge–with the help of a very special bunny.

Meet Roya, her three brothers, and their parents. They’ve just welcomed a new family member: Mishka, a fluffy bunny rabbit! Mishka quickly becomes the beloved heart of their new home in the Netherlands. As Mishka settles in, he (and Roya!) gradually learn the incredible story of their family’s journey from Afghanistan, told from the unique perspectives of big Bashir, gentle Hamayun, tough Navid, and sometimes Mom and Dad.

Inspired by co-author Anoush Elman’s own experiences fleeing Afghanistan as a child, this gorgeous, full-color illustrated chapter book by Anoush Elman and Edward van de Vendel is a story readers and parents will treasure. It’s a heartwarming tale of a young girl navigating a new country, a new school, and the joys (and challenges!) of making new friends–and yes, even a bunny escape!

P R A I S E

★ “Deftly weaving in moments of humor, joy, and sadness, the authors offer a gentle, child’s-eye view of the dangers the family faces… Profoundly and charmingly moving.”
— Kirkus (starred review)

★ “Van de Vendel and Elman’s touching narrative… gets to the emotional heart of Roya’s circumstances… This is a story with deftly drawn characters and clearly demonstrated familial love. Schaap’s full-page color portraits of various characters with Mishka add elegance to this evocative and memorable presentation.”
— Booklist (starred review)

★ “This tender novel, narrated in a simple, affecting voice by nine-year-old Roya, gently illuminates the disorienting effects of the refugee experience on a child… sensitively written and poignant.”
— Publishers Weekly (starred review)

BEST OF THE YEAR
Publishers Weekly – NYPL – Booklist