We Are Here

We Are Here

By Kate Rafiq

This is the story of a young boy and his mother, as they make a long and difficult journey over land and sea in search of safety. As they travel in a boat, the little boy reflects back over their journey, which his mother has tried to make into an adventure. Will they make it to safety and will anyone help them? 

10% of the profits will be donated to Refugee Rescue.

Note from the author:

This book has been a labour of love and at times the sensitivity and gravity of the subject has made me sincerely question whether a) I should be writing it, b) could I possibly do it justice, and c) is it just too heavy for children to deal with. I frequently felt that as this is not an ‘own voice’ story, I shouldn’t be writing it and I’m guessing some people will agree with that sentiment, and I understand that. 

Inspiration for this book came from several places. Remember two year old Alan Shenu (Alan Kurdi), who drowned with his mother and brother in the Mediterranean? And many of you will have read the poem ‘Home’ by Warsan Shire, in which she writes, “You have to understand that no one puts their children in a boat unless the water is safer than the land…”

These tragic events and these powerful words lodged deep within my gut.

Over the years I have read, watched and heard the written and filmed testimony of people who have made unimaginably difficult journeys in the hopes of finding a place to live that is safe, peaceful and prosperous. And with all of it, I have felt an equal measure of helplessness and responsibility. 

My intention for this book is only to add to the spotlights being shone on the daily tragedy of people risking everything and in so many cases - not surviving.

Of course the topic is complex for young children to grasp, so it is aimed at 7 years and up and I hope that it will spark conversation and encourage empathy in a world that seems to be ever more unwelcoming and hostile.  

Published by Dune Books.

Length: 40 pages

Format: Hardback

Language: English

ISBN 978-183-83-4613-3 

First published in 2023