Book cover for Mishka by Edward Van De Vendel and Anoush Elman
2026 Released
160 Pages
1-2 Hours
Ebook Unavailable
Audiobook Unavailable
Lantern PaperbacksISBN 9781646146598
Translated by Nancy Forest-Flier
Beautifully written--an evocative story of resilience, family love, and finding hope in a new beginning.

A new pet helps a refugee family find a sense of safety and home in this charming novel, based on the co-author's own experience.

Nine-year-old Roya, her three brothers, and their parents have finally been granted permission to stay in the Netherlands after a long, arduous journey from Afghanistan. To celebrate their new stability, they bring home Mishka, a fluffy, white dwarf rabbit.

Roya, who was only three when her family fled Kabul, finds a special confidant in Mishka. As her family members recount their journey, from their reasons for leaving to their long stay in refugee centers, Mishka's presence gently prompts Roya to process her own scattered memories and the complex emotions of starting over in an unfamiliar world.

This lyrical story weaves together moments of humor, joy, and sadness, illuminating the disorienting effects of the refugee experience through a gentle, child's-eye view.

A critically acclaimed novel, perfect for readers in grades 3-5 (ages 7-10).

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Starred Reviews: ★ Publishers Weekly ★ Kirkus ★ Booklist
Best of the Year: Publishers Weekly New York Public Library Booklist

Edward Van De Vendel

Edward van de Vendel is an award- winning author who has written dozens of books for children, including Little Fox (Levine Querido) and I'll Root for You (Eerdmans). He lives in the Netherlands. Visit his website at edwardvandevendel.nl or follow him on Twitter @edwardvdvendel.

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