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The Color of Home
With the help of his mother, the encouragement of his new teacher, and a bit of time to adjust to his new surroundings, Hassan learns to appreciate his new home in America while still remembering and acknowledging his native land of Somalia.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2002
8 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Mary Hoffman
278 books593 followersSee also works published under Mary Lassiter
Mary Hoffman is a bestselling British author and reviewer, born in 1945. She is a true enthusiast of Italy and spends a lot of her time there, which shows in her Stravaganza novels: a series currently in publication. In total, she has written over 80 books, including the aforementioned Stravaganza series and the bestselling picture book, Amazing Grace. Mary is also the editor of a review magazine Armadillo for kids.
Watch the book trailer for David, Mary Hoffman's most recent novel
Mary Hoffman is a bestselling British author and reviewer, born in 1945. She is a true enthusiast of Italy and spends a lot of her time there, which shows in her Stravaganza novels: a series currently in publication. In total, she has written over 80 books, including the aforementioned Stravaganza series and the bestselling picture book, Amazing Grace. Mary is also the editor of a review magazine Armadillo for kids.
Watch the book trailer for David, Mary Hoffman's most recent novel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
July 25, 2022
What a great inspiring story!
The Colour of Home is a picture book which is not funny, not silly, not cute, yet it is bright, colourful and attractive. Best of all, the story engages children on an emotional level, and makes them think a bit. And although parts of it are very sad, it importantly has a happy ending.
It starts with a close-up illustration of a new boy at school, with his classmates in the background. But his face is so very sad. We learn that he is called Hassan, and he is from Somalia. He does not understand what people are saying to him. Hassan thinks it is cold and grey in this strange country. He misses his home, with all the colours.
The children try to make friends with Hassan, but he is still unhappy. He paints a picture of his old home. He paints,
"a blue blue sky, without any clouds. Then a white house, a yellow sun and mimosa trees"
Hassan's picture was full of bright colours. He painted everyone in his big family, who all lived in the house, and all their animals - sheep and goats. And he painted his cat, whom he loved.
His teacher, Miss Kelly, admired his picture, but then Hassan changed it. He made the sky dark and threatening, and painted a stick figure with a gun and bullets coming out. The white walls now had blotches of red on them. He smudged out one of the stick figures. We see a close-up of Hassan's face, which is very troubled. A picture behind him, the one which he drew, is now very ugly. The teacher, Miss Kelly, had an idea.
She arranged for an interpreter, called Fela, to come to the classroom. All three of them sat down and pieced together Hassan's history,
"he told them the whole story - about the noise, the flames, the bullets and the awful smell of burning and blood".
Hassan told the grown-ups about going on a big ship from the capital, Mogadishu to Mombasa in Kenya, and how frightened they all were of thieves, and how they had to queue for food. Some of Hassan's family stayed behind. But this big city in Kenya was not where they were going to live either.
"I was frightened when I saw the plane we were going to fly in because I thought it might have bombs in. The journey was so long but I wasn't happy when it was over. Our new country seemed so cold and grey. And the flat we live in is grey too, with brown furniture. We seem to have left all the colours behind in Somalia."
Even the teacher had tears in her eyes at the end of Hassan's story. But then we follow how Hassan's mother and father are determinedly making their new home bright and cheerful with coloured fabrics, and how Hassan's painting brightens up the wall. We see that the family have saved their precious prayer mat throughout their travels. And we see how the sun does sometimes come out and the sky is just as blue as it was in Hassan's own home country.
Almost the first English word Hassan learns is "cat", and this is such a poignant part of the story, as Hassan misses their pet cat so much from when they fled. But things are looking up. They are safe now, with new friends and new pets. They are working hard to make a new life. The book ends,
"Tomorrow he would ask Miss Kelly to tell him the word for 'home'."
This is a brave attempt to involve young children in a difficult area. The civil war in Somalia may no longer be going on, but sadly there are always civil wars somewhere. The issue of asylum does not go away; there are crises with refugees and migrants tragically escalating all the time. The tragedy of people having to flee from their homes is repeated over and over again. Perhaps you choose to shield young children from the facts as much as possible. Or perhaps you feel that it is important to sometimes introduce difficult subjects and talk about them, and that a general book is a good idea.
If so, then this is an ideal book to introduce the topic of refugees and migrants. Although The Colour of Home was written in 2002, and the references are from a decade ago, it seems timeless. And so are the reactions of the characters in this book, who shows attitudes of courage, caring, respect, and empathy.
The author, Mary Hoffman has written over 70 books for children, several of which have won awards. Her prose is simple, direct, lively, informative and sensitive. Children sharing this book will both identify themselves with the children in the story, and recognise the adult characters.
The illustrator, Karin Littlewood, has also been nominated for awards for her work in children's book illustration. In this picture book she has used bold blocks of bright watercolours - bright overlaid swathes of transparent colour, with white base areas incorporated to include the light. Athough there is an impressionistic feel overall, the important details, such as relevant facial expressions, are paid special attention and very effectively conveyed.
If you're still not sure whether this is a suitable or relevant subject to share with tiny children, perhaps it would be an idea to just have a look. The book is moving and profound, yet it is simple enough for a very young child to understand and feel compassion.
The Colour of Home is a picture book which is not funny, not silly, not cute, yet it is bright, colourful and attractive. Best of all, the story engages children on an emotional level, and makes them think a bit. And although parts of it are very sad, it importantly has a happy ending.
It starts with a close-up illustration of a new boy at school, with his classmates in the background. But his face is so very sad. We learn that he is called Hassan, and he is from Somalia. He does not understand what people are saying to him. Hassan thinks it is cold and grey in this strange country. He misses his home, with all the colours.
The children try to make friends with Hassan, but he is still unhappy. He paints a picture of his old home. He paints,
"a blue blue sky, without any clouds. Then a white house, a yellow sun and mimosa trees"
Hassan's picture was full of bright colours. He painted everyone in his big family, who all lived in the house, and all their animals - sheep and goats. And he painted his cat, whom he loved.
His teacher, Miss Kelly, admired his picture, but then Hassan changed it. He made the sky dark and threatening, and painted a stick figure with a gun and bullets coming out. The white walls now had blotches of red on them. He smudged out one of the stick figures. We see a close-up of Hassan's face, which is very troubled. A picture behind him, the one which he drew, is now very ugly. The teacher, Miss Kelly, had an idea.
She arranged for an interpreter, called Fela, to come to the classroom. All three of them sat down and pieced together Hassan's history,
"he told them the whole story - about the noise, the flames, the bullets and the awful smell of burning and blood".
Hassan told the grown-ups about going on a big ship from the capital, Mogadishu to Mombasa in Kenya, and how frightened they all were of thieves, and how they had to queue for food. Some of Hassan's family stayed behind. But this big city in Kenya was not where they were going to live either.
"I was frightened when I saw the plane we were going to fly in because I thought it might have bombs in. The journey was so long but I wasn't happy when it was over. Our new country seemed so cold and grey. And the flat we live in is grey too, with brown furniture. We seem to have left all the colours behind in Somalia."
Even the teacher had tears in her eyes at the end of Hassan's story. But then we follow how Hassan's mother and father are determinedly making their new home bright and cheerful with coloured fabrics, and how Hassan's painting brightens up the wall. We see that the family have saved their precious prayer mat throughout their travels. And we see how the sun does sometimes come out and the sky is just as blue as it was in Hassan's own home country.
Almost the first English word Hassan learns is "cat", and this is such a poignant part of the story, as Hassan misses their pet cat so much from when they fled. But things are looking up. They are safe now, with new friends and new pets. They are working hard to make a new life. The book ends,
"Tomorrow he would ask Miss Kelly to tell him the word for 'home'."
This is a brave attempt to involve young children in a difficult area. The civil war in Somalia may no longer be going on, but sadly there are always civil wars somewhere. The issue of asylum does not go away; there are crises with refugees and migrants tragically escalating all the time. The tragedy of people having to flee from their homes is repeated over and over again. Perhaps you choose to shield young children from the facts as much as possible. Or perhaps you feel that it is important to sometimes introduce difficult subjects and talk about them, and that a general book is a good idea.
If so, then this is an ideal book to introduce the topic of refugees and migrants. Although The Colour of Home was written in 2002, and the references are from a decade ago, it seems timeless. And so are the reactions of the characters in this book, who shows attitudes of courage, caring, respect, and empathy.
The author, Mary Hoffman has written over 70 books for children, several of which have won awards. Her prose is simple, direct, lively, informative and sensitive. Children sharing this book will both identify themselves with the children in the story, and recognise the adult characters.
The illustrator, Karin Littlewood, has also been nominated for awards for her work in children's book illustration. In this picture book she has used bold blocks of bright watercolours - bright overlaid swathes of transparent colour, with white base areas incorporated to include the light. Athough there is an impressionistic feel overall, the important details, such as relevant facial expressions, are paid special attention and very effectively conveyed.
If you're still not sure whether this is a suitable or relevant subject to share with tiny children, perhaps it would be an idea to just have a look. The book is moving and profound, yet it is simple enough for a very young child to understand and feel compassion.
January 22, 2019
What a beautifully moving book. It shows us how life in other countries is difficult and that children perhaps cannot leave it behind. Such a great story to show a class.
October 23, 2013
"The Colour of Home" is an inspiring story of a young boy named Hassan, trying to adjust to life in a new country. Hassan and his family had to flee Somalia due to terror and war. The narrative follows Hassan's journey as he struggles to find comfort in his new surroundings. What I enjoyed most, was the authenticity of the story. Although I am slightly puzzled on what age group would be appropriate for this story, due to the vivid details of war, it tells a true account of a real life refuge situation. The author, Mary Hoffman, uses vivid expressive language to paint a picture of Hassan's current circumstance. Like any child starting a new school, Hassan has trouble adjusting, especially because he was in a new country all together. He knows little English but finds relief in expressing himself through art. As a teacher I will use this text to teach that expressive and descriptive language, such as "blue, blue sky without any clouds, white house, bright yellow sun, mimosa tress, small sandy creature that was supposed to be his cat" can paint even more beautiful pictures than those displayed by illustrations. I will also use this story as a tool to help students adjust to school. By letting students know that it's okay to be afraid of something new because over time, if you give it a chance, things will get better. The illustrator, Karin Littlewood, uses beautiful vibrant paint like strokes to illuminate the story, much like how Hassan illustrates his life story.
October 12, 2013
This a story of a little boy who moves to the UK from Somalia, therefore depicts the boys immediate struggle with his change of surroundings. Firstly the language barrier is a difficulty, until he gains a translator which makes him feel more comfortable. The biggest change for the young boy is the lack of colour in his new British home compared to his in Somalia, therefore in encouraged to draw and paint pictures of his old home in order to make him feel more welcome and comfortable in his new classroom and home. He eventually warms to living in Britain as he makes more friends and decorates his new home with images of his old one.
This lovely story would be perfect to read to a class that had just gained a new pupil, maybe from a different country to show them the struggles this child may feel. It would also help the child understand that they will warm to their new surroundings and there are many people around him who want to help and care for them.
This lovely story would be perfect to read to a class that had just gained a new pupil, maybe from a different country to show them the struggles this child may feel. It would also help the child understand that they will warm to their new surroundings and there are many people around him who want to help and care for them.
October 8, 2019
Hassan is a little boy who arrives at a British school after fleeing Somalia. His classmate are really friendly but as he can't speak English yet is struggled to feel settled. It isn't until the middle of the book until it's evident why. This is a great book to explore when discussing what home means to different people and to discuss with children the difficulty of seeking asylum from a war torn country. It also offers a good opportunity to incorporate art and home and how you could use different materials and colours to represent your home. One of my favourite aspects of the book is that the characters in the background were of different ethnic groups, which is very true for UK British primary schools and can often be overlooked. :)
Deffo a must read
Deffo a must read
June 5, 2023
The Colour of Home by Mary Hoffman is a children's picture book, published in 2003. It is a realistic and poignant story of a young refugee boy from Somalia who faces difficulties in adapting to his new life in England. Hassan misses his home, his friends and his grandmother, who died in the war. He also suffers from nightmares about the violence he witnessed. At school, he feels alienated and isolated, until his teacher supports him to paint a picture of his old home and share his story with the class. Through art and words, Hassan communicates his feelings and memories, and finds some solace and hope in his new home.
This book is a useful resource for children's literature, as it addresses a relevant and important topic of immigration and refugees in a sympathetic and respectful way. The book portrays the challenges and emotions that many children like Hassan experience when they have to leave their homeland and start anew in a new country. The book also demonstrates the power of art and storytelling as a way of healing and connecting with others. The book is illustrated by Karin Littlewood, who uses bright and warm colours to contrast Hassan's old and new homes. The book also includes some words in Somali and Arabic, which enrich the authenticity and diversity of the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to discuss the experiences of refugee children and how they cope with change and trauma. The book is suitable for children ages 6 and up, but I think adults can also appreciate it and empathise with Hassan's journey. The book is based on a true story and has won several awards, such as the Frances Lincoln Children's Book Award.
The book has several educational objectives for children, such as:
- To develop empathy and understanding for people from different backgrounds and cultures.
- To raise awareness and sensitivity about the issues of war, violence and displacement.
- To explore the themes of identity, belonging and resilience.
- To appreciate the value of art and language as forms of expression and communication.
- To enhance their vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking skills.
This book is a useful resource for children's literature, as it addresses a relevant and important topic of immigration and refugees in a sympathetic and respectful way. The book portrays the challenges and emotions that many children like Hassan experience when they have to leave their homeland and start anew in a new country. The book also demonstrates the power of art and storytelling as a way of healing and connecting with others. The book is illustrated by Karin Littlewood, who uses bright and warm colours to contrast Hassan's old and new homes. The book also includes some words in Somali and Arabic, which enrich the authenticity and diversity of the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to discuss the experiences of refugee children and how they cope with change and trauma. The book is suitable for children ages 6 and up, but I think adults can also appreciate it and empathise with Hassan's journey. The book is based on a true story and has won several awards, such as the Frances Lincoln Children's Book Award.
The book has several educational objectives for children, such as:
- To develop empathy and understanding for people from different backgrounds and cultures.
- To raise awareness and sensitivity about the issues of war, violence and displacement.
- To explore the themes of identity, belonging and resilience.
- To appreciate the value of art and language as forms of expression and communication.
- To enhance their vocabulary, comprehension and critical thinking skills.
October 29, 2013
Hassan has fled Somalia with his mother, father and sister Naima. He feels isolated in his new ‘grey’ world, cannot speak a word of English and misses his cat Musa. However it is through the support and understanding of his teacher Miss Kelly that Hassan feels he is able to express the trauma that he experienced in Somalia. Hassan’s last moments in his home country are revealed in a painting.
We learn that the beautiful colours of home, with the ‘yellow sun and mimosa trees’ were destroyed when the soldiers came and destroyed Hassan’s home and killed his uncle. But realising that the painting will make his mother sad, Hassan decides to paint another picture. This time Hassan paints a brighter picture which even includes his cat Musa. Hassan’s new world gradually becomes more colourful. Having learnt the word ‘cat’ Hassan decides that he’ll ask Miss Kelly to tell him the word for ‘home’.
I enjoyed reading this deeply touching and moving story. The colours in the beautiful illustrations supported Hassan’s story and provided me with a rich visual experience too.
Although the story covered themes of loss and trauma, I felt the author did this with great sensitivity. By experiencing the story through Hassan’s eyes, I was able to appreciate that there may be many more children with similar stories to Hassan’s in our London schools.
I would use this book for Years 3 and 4. I feel that children in this age range would have a better understanding of the various themes that the book covers.
This book would be an excellent book to share and discuss during Refugee Week or any time for that matter. It could be used to read to the class and topic work could be based around being a new arrival. Perhaps pupils could share how they would support and welcome a new member of their class who had just arrived from another country. There is scope for cross-curricular work in Art and Geography. Perhaps pupils could paint pictures of Hassan’s village or learn facts about Somalia such as its location, weather, language and culture.
We learn that the beautiful colours of home, with the ‘yellow sun and mimosa trees’ were destroyed when the soldiers came and destroyed Hassan’s home and killed his uncle. But realising that the painting will make his mother sad, Hassan decides to paint another picture. This time Hassan paints a brighter picture which even includes his cat Musa. Hassan’s new world gradually becomes more colourful. Having learnt the word ‘cat’ Hassan decides that he’ll ask Miss Kelly to tell him the word for ‘home’.
I enjoyed reading this deeply touching and moving story. The colours in the beautiful illustrations supported Hassan’s story and provided me with a rich visual experience too.
Although the story covered themes of loss and trauma, I felt the author did this with great sensitivity. By experiencing the story through Hassan’s eyes, I was able to appreciate that there may be many more children with similar stories to Hassan’s in our London schools.
I would use this book for Years 3 and 4. I feel that children in this age range would have a better understanding of the various themes that the book covers.
This book would be an excellent book to share and discuss during Refugee Week or any time for that matter. It could be used to read to the class and topic work could be based around being a new arrival. Perhaps pupils could share how they would support and welcome a new member of their class who had just arrived from another country. There is scope for cross-curricular work in Art and Geography. Perhaps pupils could paint pictures of Hassan’s village or learn facts about Somalia such as its location, weather, language and culture.
September 17, 2013
The Colour of Home is a beautifully illustrated and moving story of a young boy named Hassan in his first few days at a new school in the United States after fleeing war torn Somalia with his family. He misses the vibrant colours of his previous home in Africa deeply and finds his new home to be very 'grey' in comparison. During a school art lesson he paints a picture of his old home which shows the trauma he has been through, when the teacher sees this she arranges for a translator to visit the next day. Through the translator Hassan shares his experiences with the teacher, gradually he becomes less homesick, makes new friends and starts to notice the colours that surround him in his new American home.
I really liked this book, however I have given it just 3/5 stars, the reason for this is that I am not entirely sure which age group it would be most appropriate to read to. The back of the book suggests that it is suited to key stage 1 and 2 for literacy and key stage 2 for PSHE, however, although the age of the boy (about 6-7) would suggest that it would be targeted towards this age group, some of the detail involving the soldiers who killed Hassan's uncle and the talk of blood, bullets and guns could upset some children of this age. Therefore, perhaps as suggested on the back, it might be more appropriate for key stage 2 children who might be better able to deal with the subject matter. However, if this is the case then perhaps it might have been better to have portrayed Hassan as slightly older so that key stage 2 children could relate more. In this way I feel it is a shame that the target audience isn't clearer as it would have been a highly useful book to have used to promote an understanding of the experiences of refugee children in diverse, multicultural schools such as in East London.
I really liked this book, however I have given it just 3/5 stars, the reason for this is that I am not entirely sure which age group it would be most appropriate to read to. The back of the book suggests that it is suited to key stage 1 and 2 for literacy and key stage 2 for PSHE, however, although the age of the boy (about 6-7) would suggest that it would be targeted towards this age group, some of the detail involving the soldiers who killed Hassan's uncle and the talk of blood, bullets and guns could upset some children of this age. Therefore, perhaps as suggested on the back, it might be more appropriate for key stage 2 children who might be better able to deal with the subject matter. However, if this is the case then perhaps it might have been better to have portrayed Hassan as slightly older so that key stage 2 children could relate more. In this way I feel it is a shame that the target audience isn't clearer as it would have been a highly useful book to have used to promote an understanding of the experiences of refugee children in diverse, multicultural schools such as in East London.
September 3, 2012
The Colour Of Home is a very touching story about a Somalian boy called Hassan who moves to the UK with his family as a refugee seeking asylum. Hassan knows no English when he arrives and has had many heart-breaking experiences throughout his life in Somalia. When he begins school he has nobody who understands him and finds it extremely difficult to blend in with his peers. Things take a turn for the better when the class teacher asks children to draw a picture. Hassan expresses himself in his drawing and is able to communicate with his teacher through his meaningful drawing. Hassan's drawing contained his deepest feelings, and the teacher could see his pain through this. The following day, Hassan wanted to draw another picture to take home to his family. The teacher also brings in a translator that helps her delve deeper into Hassan's thoughts, feelings and experiences.
This book would be perfect for highlighting the issues a refugee child might face. This book may also be well suited to inner-city schools where there are higher numbers of refugee children or children who have English as an additional language. It can promote better understanding of the difficulties faced by those relocating and learning a new language. The age group I would read this book with are 7-9 and would be a first-choice book to read for school topic weeks such as 'refugee week'.
This book would be perfect for highlighting the issues a refugee child might face. This book may also be well suited to inner-city schools where there are higher numbers of refugee children or children who have English as an additional language. It can promote better understanding of the difficulties faced by those relocating and learning a new language. The age group I would read this book with are 7-9 and would be a first-choice book to read for school topic weeks such as 'refugee week'.
August 22, 2018
This sympathetic description of a Somalian boy named Hassan coming to terms with living (with his family) as a refugee in England helps Lower Key Stage 2 children understand the many challenges refugees face - food, language, customs, friendships - whilst simultaneously explaining the story behind Hassan's need to depart from his own country, a place he and his family never wanted to leave but were forced to flee from to escape violence and death. It's a similar theme to Elizabeth Laird's 'Welcome to Nowhere', except painted from a happier and less harrowing perspective for a younger audience. As Hassan learns more and more about his new home, and finds a sense of belonging there, his grey and white world acquires the colours of Somalia and he starts to love England just as much. Whilst for many children the subject may be hugely informative in contrast to what they may hear at home or see in the media, for pupils who are genuine refugees, I wonder if the perfect ending presented here or memories the book may raise may be too upsetting. Nevertheless, if teachers know their pupils well and collaborate productively with parents, any potential of this could hopefully be successfully avoided and the book's many benefits be maximised and celebrated.
January 6, 2019
When Hassan starts a new school after fleeing war torn Somalia, he is struck by the differences between life in the USA and that of his home country. It is the associations that Hassan has with colour that allows Hoffman to draw a contrast between the protagonist’s past and present home, and depict the range of conflicting internal emotions when reflecting upon what has been lost. I really liked that Hassan was able to use art to express past traumas and bring part of his old home into the USA, allowing him to overcome internal barriers alongside language ones.
I am most drawn to the relationships displayed within The Colour of Home, particularly between Hassan and his mum. There is perhaps a role reversal shown by the care and protection that Hassan shows towards his mother when wanting to shelter her from his unhappiness. For sure, this is a worry that has come too early for Hassan, but one that is unfortunately only too close to reality for child refugees. A story that definitely shows strong potential for thinking about the early maturing and familial pressures experienced by a child that has endured and suffered from war.
I am most drawn to the relationships displayed within The Colour of Home, particularly between Hassan and his mum. There is perhaps a role reversal shown by the care and protection that Hassan shows towards his mother when wanting to shelter her from his unhappiness. For sure, this is a worry that has come too early for Hassan, but one that is unfortunately only too close to reality for child refugees. A story that definitely shows strong potential for thinking about the early maturing and familial pressures experienced by a child that has endured and suffered from war.
May 7, 2012
The Colour of Home is a book primarily looking at the issue of refugee children. The story is about a little boy whose family have been given asylum in the UK and it is his first time at school. It portrays some of the issues that arise, both simple misunderstandings and also more complex issues, which need to be addresses by a specialist. The young boy has seen and heard some terrible things in his home country and therefore needs special care and attention. The book ends with the boy, although not forgetting his past, is able to look forward to his new life in the UK.
This book would be beneficial not only for refugee children, but also for pupils in a class with refugees and teachers of these classes. This book seems to be written and narrated for children of all ages, however, I would be reluctant to show to very young children are the book contains some more adult descriptions of war, guns and blood.
A good, informative, thought-provoking book for slightly older children.
This book would be beneficial not only for refugee children, but also for pupils in a class with refugees and teachers of these classes. This book seems to be written and narrated for children of all ages, however, I would be reluctant to show to very young children are the book contains some more adult descriptions of war, guns and blood.
A good, informative, thought-provoking book for slightly older children.
November 5, 2011
Having moved from his homeland in Somalia, Hassan begins school in ‘gray’ England, feeling lost, sad and not understanding a word of English around him. Hassan doesn’t like his new school or his new home. Drawing a picture of what actually happened in Somalia, the reason Hassan and his family emigrated to England, a sad and worrying story is unravelled. With the help of a translator, the class teacher and the children in his class, Hassan begins to settle in and feels a little more at ease, he see’s a more colourful aspect to life as he did in Somalia and soon he’s smiling and making new friends.
I very much enjoyed reading this book, mostly because I felt it could be related to many children who have newly come to England and who’s first language isn’t English. It covered aspects of a new child beginning school, English as an additional language and a great deal of feelings within children who live through such experiences. Thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend the read.
I very much enjoyed reading this book, mostly because I felt it could be related to many children who have newly come to England and who’s first language isn’t English. It covered aspects of a new child beginning school, English as an additional language and a great deal of feelings within children who live through such experiences. Thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend the read.
March 2, 2012
Hassan has come to the U.S. from Somalia. He doesn't speak much English yet but he paints a devastating picture of his life at home, including the death of his uncle. His astute teacher realizes he needs help in expressing his grief and fear so she brings in a translator who helps him work through his emotions. He ends by painting an optimistic picture of the future. Vivid watercolor paintings portray not only Hassan in his classroom and at home, but also the paintings he creates himself. The Lexile measure is 540, so the book can be read for primary children. A teacher would probably want to prepare the class for the deep emotion and raw incidents of the story.
February 20, 2010
This story is of a young refugee boy from Somalia who manages to escape violence from the soldiers in his home country. The picture that he paints and later describes to a translator tells graphically of how his uncle was shot while he hides in his cousins' room. The story is very descriptive and makes one understand how someone like the boy feels in a totally foreign country and could describe it as devoid of color with its gray tones. I may use this with children when discussing immigrants or refugees or what war does to families.
June 15, 2012
This is a perfect book for highlighting the issue of a refugee child. You can see why it won the 2003 National Literacy Association Wow award. It deals with common issues of EAL children arriving in a new country and not understanding cultural, language etc. The book makes us appreciate how hard it is for a child to make sense of their new surroundings. This book was very moving and leaves you feeling that your life is rather straightforward compared to the issues Hassan had to deal with.
August 29, 2017
Great book about diversity and kids being in new settings. Would recommend to teachers to read to their students. It's great
February 26, 2018
A sensitively written book about a young Somalian refugee which I read to my six-year-old. I could hardly read out loud the last few pages, I was so choked.
September 26, 2019
This was a really good book! It was interesting to see how a child who has fled from a war-torn country feels about settling in. As a trainee teacher, it helped me understand how to support and communicate with a student who does not speak English.
November 16, 2017
Summary: The Color of Home is about a refugee family from Somalia. The main character, a small boy named Hassan, is thrown into new situations in every space in his life. This is a great story of perseverance, acceptance, kindness and connection.
Characteristics: This story’s illustrations are beautifully amazing and help to express the words so well. Hassan realizes that not many things in his new country are the same until he notices colors that remind him of home or his culture. This is a great positive representation of Somali culture and provides the reader so much joy in watching Hassan and his family grow, share and love.
Mentor Writing Traits:
Ideas-The big ideas throughout this text are that even when you are away or in a new situation there can always be something you can connect with. For Hassan, this was the colors that he found in his new world that represented his old one. This is a great story to share when looking for positive representations of Somali culture and how to show kindness even when people are very different.
Presentation- This story’s illustrations do so much to create a deep understanding of the characters, their culture and their struggle. Beautifully done, they show many details that readers can connect to and/or begin to understand.
Classroom Integration: This text would be great to use in a series on positive representations for Somali culture when learning about different aspects of student’s lives. This is also an amazing mirror/window text where students would be able to either see themselves and or see their friends/neighbors in stories. This story could also be used in a lesson on empathy, kindness and author’s perspective. Using this text to support different aspects of learning could really enhance the story line and embed positive influences on students.
Reading Level: Level N/3.6
Characteristics: This story’s illustrations are beautifully amazing and help to express the words so well. Hassan realizes that not many things in his new country are the same until he notices colors that remind him of home or his culture. This is a great positive representation of Somali culture and provides the reader so much joy in watching Hassan and his family grow, share and love.
Mentor Writing Traits:
Ideas-The big ideas throughout this text are that even when you are away or in a new situation there can always be something you can connect with. For Hassan, this was the colors that he found in his new world that represented his old one. This is a great story to share when looking for positive representations of Somali culture and how to show kindness even when people are very different.
Presentation- This story’s illustrations do so much to create a deep understanding of the characters, their culture and their struggle. Beautifully done, they show many details that readers can connect to and/or begin to understand.
Classroom Integration: This text would be great to use in a series on positive representations for Somali culture when learning about different aspects of student’s lives. This is also an amazing mirror/window text where students would be able to either see themselves and or see their friends/neighbors in stories. This story could also be used in a lesson on empathy, kindness and author’s perspective. Using this text to support different aspects of learning could really enhance the story line and embed positive influences on students.
Reading Level: Level N/3.6
February 6, 2017
Although his home in Somalia is no longer a safe place for his family, Hassan still misses it desperately and feels as though he doesn't belong in his new home. Even though his classmates in England are friendly enough and try to include him in their games, Hassan is exhausted from trying to learn a new language and keep up with what everyone is saying. Also, school just seems so different in this unfamiliar place from how it was back home. When he paints a colorful picture of his home and then ruins it, Miss Kelly, his teacher, realizes the importance of those images and enlists the services of Fela, who speaks his language, and seems to be living in two different cultures. As she gains his confidence, Hassan explains the contents of his picture and the losses his family suffered, including the death of an uncle and the necessity of leaving behind his cat, Musa, a loss he mourns even more than his uncle's death. The bleakness of the refugee camps and the newness of traveling by airplane and then coming to a place that is so very different from what was familiar to him are expressed in his comments that "Our new country seemed all cold and grey. And the flat we live in is grey too, with brown furniture. We seem to have left all the colors behind in Somalia" (unpaged). It doesn't take much imagination on the part of readers to realize just how terribly pale and dull England must seem compared to his former home. Although Hassan bounces back a bit too quickly after his conversation with Fela and Miss Kelly, ready to draw another picture that is filled with sunny colors and happy memories, I still liked this book a great deal because of its honest depiction of a child's perspective on having to flee and leave all that was familiar far behind. The color palette enhances the story perfectly, and Hassan's mother is still in traditional garb, showing that she, too, has not left her home behind and can appreciate what both worlds have to offer. My heart was wrenched by the fact that Hassan could not bring his cat with him when the family relocated. It makes me wonder what happened to poor Musa. This title would be quite useful in a classroom with refugee children or immigrants, providing reassurance that things will get better, and the pain will lessen. Clearly, Hassan will be able to hold onto things from his past that matter and bring them together alongside the new experiences he will have in his new homeland.
January 6, 2014
Hoffman's bitter-sweet window into the formative years of a young boy named Hassan depicts an all too familiar story for the people of east London. She paints a picture of a picture painted, echoing a harsh reality that some young children have been unfortunate enough to experience. Hassan arrives at his new school with next to no English, afraid and tentative to explore his new environment. With the help of his teacher, a translator, a new friend and a supportive family he is able to begin to see brightness that has been shadowed by violence and loss.
The Colour of Home is not only an emotive read, but has themes of support and security that teachers in UK schools are striving to provide through passion and necessity. The UK currently schools near to 100,000 refugee children and over 7,000 of these reside in the borough of Newham, the most multicultural borough in the world. The words of Mary Hoffman and the charming illustrations of Karin Littlewood address some of the terrifying realities of these children and offers hope and motivation to older readers that work can be done to rebuild their lives.
As a PGCE student training in Newham with a view to working here, the book highlights a topic that I have already experienced in only a short time of teaching and it is great to see it recognised. I feel it would also be of great value to those who perhaps find it difficult to understand our border policies, to help them realise that often those who need help have had no say in their situation.
As a British citizen, it gives me great pride to think that even in a time of economic downturn and energy crisis we are able to provide a point of safety to people that need it. That we are a multicultural country with a diverse capital that gives shelter and opportunity to a wide range of people.
As a reader, it is of note that such a short title can evoke such a reaction and be a talking point for such an important topic.
I have nominated this book for inclusion in the London Picture Books Collection as the story of this Somalian family, or thousands of others like it from across the globe, takes places place here in a way that London truly understands.
The Colour of Home is not only an emotive read, but has themes of support and security that teachers in UK schools are striving to provide through passion and necessity. The UK currently schools near to 100,000 refugee children and over 7,000 of these reside in the borough of Newham, the most multicultural borough in the world. The words of Mary Hoffman and the charming illustrations of Karin Littlewood address some of the terrifying realities of these children and offers hope and motivation to older readers that work can be done to rebuild their lives.
As a PGCE student training in Newham with a view to working here, the book highlights a topic that I have already experienced in only a short time of teaching and it is great to see it recognised. I feel it would also be of great value to those who perhaps find it difficult to understand our border policies, to help them realise that often those who need help have had no say in their situation.
As a British citizen, it gives me great pride to think that even in a time of economic downturn and energy crisis we are able to provide a point of safety to people that need it. That we are a multicultural country with a diverse capital that gives shelter and opportunity to a wide range of people.
As a reader, it is of note that such a short title can evoke such a reaction and be a talking point for such an important topic.
I have nominated this book for inclusion in the London Picture Books Collection as the story of this Somalian family, or thousands of others like it from across the globe, takes places place here in a way that London truly understands.
April 30, 2014
This moving picture book follows a boy called Hassan through his first few days at school. Hassan is a refugee who has arrived to the country quite recently. He and his family were forced to flee from Somalia because of the war; he misses the colourful landscape in his former home and this is one of the reasons why he is having a difficult time trying to adjust his lifestyle. However with the help of the teacher and the school's art project Hassan finds that art helped him share his story and feelings. He painted a picture of his old home and he finds out that there are many similarities in his new home and his old home. Hassan then meets a member of staff that is also Somali; he looks at the lady and recognises that they are both from the same culture but then he realises that she is slightly different because she is wearing Western clothes. The lady has helped Hassan to feel more comfortable because he can relate to her.
In the beginning of the story the author: conveys themes of isolation, loneliness, silence and belonging, however as the story progresses the author depicts: comfort, support, similarities and closeness. Moreover, Hassan's homesickness is lessened as the story progresses. This story could be a useful resource for children who have arrived new to the UK or the school; they could read this book independently in order to feel some ease as they may be very nervous and withdrawn. The colourful illustrations depict the colours in Africa and show how they are not so different to the colours in his new home. Children can relate to Hassan, because they too may feel that they are trying to adjust and find comfort in their new surroundings.
In addition, this story could be used for a PSHE lesson in KS1 and KS2 (aged 6-9) because it will firstly feel the newcomers to feel more comfortable and reassured and secondly it would allow other children to understand how it feels for a newcomer therefore they would be more supportive to their peers and help the child to adjust to new surroundings.
In the beginning of the story the author: conveys themes of isolation, loneliness, silence and belonging, however as the story progresses the author depicts: comfort, support, similarities and closeness. Moreover, Hassan's homesickness is lessened as the story progresses. This story could be a useful resource for children who have arrived new to the UK or the school; they could read this book independently in order to feel some ease as they may be very nervous and withdrawn. The colourful illustrations depict the colours in Africa and show how they are not so different to the colours in his new home. Children can relate to Hassan, because they too may feel that they are trying to adjust and find comfort in their new surroundings.
In addition, this story could be used for a PSHE lesson in KS1 and KS2 (aged 6-9) because it will firstly feel the newcomers to feel more comfortable and reassured and secondly it would allow other children to understand how it feels for a newcomer therefore they would be more supportive to their peers and help the child to adjust to new surroundings.
November 2, 2013
This remarkably moving picture book follows a boy, Hassan, through his first few days at school. Hassan has only recently arrived in the United States after he and his family were forced to flee Somalia, and he deeply misses the colourful landscape of his former home in Africa. But with the help of his parents, an understanding teacher, and a school art project, Hassan finds that by painting a picture of his old home and sharing his story, his homesickness and the trauma of leaving a war-torn country are lessened. And he finds that there are many things to like about his new home in America.
Theme:
The themes are about fitting in, communication, family and artistic expression.
While every land displays colour in its own unique way, Hassan's perception of America as dull and gray is as much a function of his homesickness and his traumatic war experience as it may be of geographic or physical differences in his new home.
I may also use this story in a History lesson as part of World War II.
It can be used to explain how colour can be used during an Art session. Children can create their own colour spectrums with paints or crayons. Ask them which is their favourite colour and why. Discuss how certain colours may be associated with particular feelings and ideas, based on culture or experience. For example, while red may conjure happy images of Santa Claus for many children, Hassan connects the colour ‘red’ to the flames engulfing the roof and the blood spattered on the walls when the soldiers came to his Somalia home. Have children describe what other colours meant to Hassan in Somalia as a means of learning about this boy and his country ("White is the colour of a flock of sheep"); then ask them to express what those colours may mean for them ("White is the colour of winter snow"). Use colour as a metaphor of things of their choice.
Theme:
The themes are about fitting in, communication, family and artistic expression.
While every land displays colour in its own unique way, Hassan's perception of America as dull and gray is as much a function of his homesickness and his traumatic war experience as it may be of geographic or physical differences in his new home.
I may also use this story in a History lesson as part of World War II.
It can be used to explain how colour can be used during an Art session. Children can create their own colour spectrums with paints or crayons. Ask them which is their favourite colour and why. Discuss how certain colours may be associated with particular feelings and ideas, based on culture or experience. For example, while red may conjure happy images of Santa Claus for many children, Hassan connects the colour ‘red’ to the flames engulfing the roof and the blood spattered on the walls when the soldiers came to his Somalia home. Have children describe what other colours meant to Hassan in Somalia as a means of learning about this boy and his country ("White is the colour of a flock of sheep"); then ask them to express what those colours may mean for them ("White is the colour of winter snow"). Use colour as a metaphor of things of their choice.
January 31, 2016
This moving picture book, by Mary Hoffman, kept me engaged throughout. It is about a boy who has recently arrived from the war-torn country of Somalia. The plot revolves around Hassan trying to adjust to life in the United States as well as the primary classroom. He is used to having lessons ‘out of doors from early in the morning' until the sun became ‘too hot at midday’ but in America he is required to stay ‘indoors’ until playtime. He seems so affected by the civil war in Somalia so much so that he changes a utopian painting of his old home into a sad and dismal depiction of his displacement story.
‘The Colour of Home’ was a fantastic read as it teaches that talking through troubles helps to relieve stress and worries to some extent. Through the help of his class teacher and Fela, the interpreter, Hassan was able to deal with his memories/anxieties about his troubled life back in Somalia. This book would be appropriate for pupils in upper KS1 and KS2 as it introduces difficult subject areas such as seeking asylum, civil war and emigration. These themes and issues are also still prevalent today and many children within a primary classroom would be able to identify with Hassan’s plight of leaving his homeland.
Within a primary classroom, this book could be used to prompt discussion about moving home, English as an Additional Language (EAL), wars in History as well as more current civil wars. This book could also inspire pupils in English lessons; pupils could imagine they are Hassan and describe life in Somalia in a diary entry format. The terrible ordeal of experiencing bombing, being forced to leave his county and the experience of living in a camp (with food scarcity) could also be explored. Pupils could also examine the physical and human geography of the countries mentioned within the story (for a Geography lesson).
‘The Colour of Home’ was a fantastic read as it teaches that talking through troubles helps to relieve stress and worries to some extent. Through the help of his class teacher and Fela, the interpreter, Hassan was able to deal with his memories/anxieties about his troubled life back in Somalia. This book would be appropriate for pupils in upper KS1 and KS2 as it introduces difficult subject areas such as seeking asylum, civil war and emigration. These themes and issues are also still prevalent today and many children within a primary classroom would be able to identify with Hassan’s plight of leaving his homeland.
Within a primary classroom, this book could be used to prompt discussion about moving home, English as an Additional Language (EAL), wars in History as well as more current civil wars. This book could also inspire pupils in English lessons; pupils could imagine they are Hassan and describe life in Somalia in a diary entry format. The terrible ordeal of experiencing bombing, being forced to leave his county and the experience of living in a camp (with food scarcity) could also be explored. Pupils could also examine the physical and human geography of the countries mentioned within the story (for a Geography lesson).
May 12, 2013
This book is about a boy named Hassan who has recently left his home country, Somalia to live in England. The story is told from Hassan’s perspective of how he is feeling about living in a new country and going to a new school. He explains that he is finding it difficult to understand the other children and his class teacher when they speak to him, he also explains that he is finding it hard to view England as his home because he was use to the way he lived in Somalia. In the afternoon Hassan’s class teacher gives him some paper and a paint brush for him to paint a picture. When Hassan began to paint he used bright colours to paint his family and his home however, he then began to use dark colours such as red and purple. The painting revealed the reasons behind why he had to move to England with his family. His teacher then decided to find out the meaning behind his painting by asking someone to translate for her. He told the translator a story of soldiers coming to his home and shooting his uncle, he then explains that he had to leave the country because of what had happened which is why he now lives in England. In the end because Hassan was so afraid of showing his mother the picture he had drawn, he decided to draw a new picture to give to her which had no dark colours or soldiers.
I think that this book would be enjoyable for all children in Key Stage one and Key Stage two. This book would be a good starting point for learning about why some people need to leave their countries to live somewhere else. Also for getting children to think about whether they have ever been in a situation where they were in a new place and did not know anyone. Furthermore I also think that this book has some interesting vocabulary which could also be explored.
I think that this book would be enjoyable for all children in Key Stage one and Key Stage two. This book would be a good starting point for learning about why some people need to leave their countries to live somewhere else. Also for getting children to think about whether they have ever been in a situation where they were in a new place and did not know anyone. Furthermore I also think that this book has some interesting vocabulary which could also be explored.
June 26, 2017
SPOILER ALERT***SPOILER ALERT***SPOILER ALERT
The poor little boy. -Lilly
It's sad 'cause his uncle died. -Diane
First it was happy but then it was sad. But it was good that everything was good at the end. -Darya
I would recommend reading this book for ages 8 up because it's a true story and it's got some violence in. -Simon
It was really emotional and it made me really sad. And it made me remember when I was in Junior Infants and I didn't understand the teacher either. -Erin
I didn't know why but in the book the kid's painting had his uncle holding a gun and the red stuff kind of looked like a bit of blood. -Tarik
It was very sad. Made me cry a little. -Vadim
The little boy's picture was very good at the start but I don't know why he wanted to wreck it with his uncle dying and his cat getting lost and his house getting on fire - it's so sad. -Michal
I liked it when they went somewhere safe to stay. -Amelija
I liked his cat because he was just holding on to it and the boy was so little he didn't even understand his uncle died and he didn't even cry. And it's so weird 'cause his uncle's name is actually my name. But it's good he went to a different country and stayed there happy ever after. -Ahmed
I liked it but -I liked the picture but I don't know why it changed, like when everyone was dying and stuff. I didn't like the dying part. -Marcel
Warning! For little children, don't read this book, 'cause there's killing. -Daniel
It's a bit sad because the boy's Mam had to sell all her jewellery to get tickets for England. -Cathal
It's really sad because the little boy's uncle died. -Aoife
How did the fire get on the house? It was probably a grenade but I don't know what.. It was a very, very sad story. -Patryk
The poor little boy. -Lilly
It's sad 'cause his uncle died. -Diane
First it was happy but then it was sad. But it was good that everything was good at the end. -Darya
I would recommend reading this book for ages 8 up because it's a true story and it's got some violence in. -Simon
It was really emotional and it made me really sad. And it made me remember when I was in Junior Infants and I didn't understand the teacher either. -Erin
I didn't know why but in the book the kid's painting had his uncle holding a gun and the red stuff kind of looked like a bit of blood. -Tarik
It was very sad. Made me cry a little. -Vadim
The little boy's picture was very good at the start but I don't know why he wanted to wreck it with his uncle dying and his cat getting lost and his house getting on fire - it's so sad. -Michal
I liked it when they went somewhere safe to stay. -Amelija
I liked his cat because he was just holding on to it and the boy was so little he didn't even understand his uncle died and he didn't even cry. And it's so weird 'cause his uncle's name is actually my name. But it's good he went to a different country and stayed there happy ever after. -Ahmed
I liked it but -I liked the picture but I don't know why it changed, like when everyone was dying and stuff. I didn't like the dying part. -Marcel
Warning! For little children, don't read this book, 'cause there's killing. -Daniel
It's a bit sad because the boy's Mam had to sell all her jewellery to get tickets for England. -Cathal
It's really sad because the little boy's uncle died. -Aoife
How did the fire get on the house? It was probably a grenade but I don't know what.. It was a very, very sad story. -Patryk
January 23, 2010
This picture book, intended for ages 4-8, is a beautifully illustrated book about a young child adjusting to life in America after being forced out of his home in Somalia by a violent war. The little boy, feels very alone and unable to communicate since he does not know anybody or the language. However, with the help of his parents, his teacher, and an interpreter, he uses painting as a way to communicate and help in adjusting to his new home in America.
Children, especially immigrants, who are moving to or from a different place will be able to relate to this book. This book is filled with emotion and shows the power of being able to tell ones own story to people who will listen. The main character in the book, Hassan, feels unsure, lost, and lonely in his new country and home, having to learn a new language, go to a new school, and make new friends. However, once given the opportunity of communicating though painting, Hassan was able to tell his story and show his feelings about what happened to him and the new changes that are occurring in his life. After being able to tell his story through painting, he began to open up, remember the good things about Somalia, and begin to make new memories in America. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and beautifully compliment the book. They are done in impressionistic watercolor and show the transformation of Hassan’s feelings and emotions as the illustrations go from dark grays, blacks, purples, and reds, to bright blues, greens, and yellow colors.
Children, especially immigrants, who are moving to or from a different place will be able to relate to this book. This book is filled with emotion and shows the power of being able to tell ones own story to people who will listen. The main character in the book, Hassan, feels unsure, lost, and lonely in his new country and home, having to learn a new language, go to a new school, and make new friends. However, once given the opportunity of communicating though painting, Hassan was able to tell his story and show his feelings about what happened to him and the new changes that are occurring in his life. After being able to tell his story through painting, he began to open up, remember the good things about Somalia, and begin to make new memories in America. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and beautifully compliment the book. They are done in impressionistic watercolor and show the transformation of Hassan’s feelings and emotions as the illustrations go from dark grays, blacks, purples, and reds, to bright blues, greens, and yellow colors.
September 18, 2017
This book is a wonderful story about Hassan, a Somali boy, who is brand new to the United States. He is having a difficult time adjusting to the new language, climate, colors, and food. Miss Kelly, his teacher has the class paint after lunch. Hassan paints a beautiful picture of his homeland. But then he adds guns, bullets, blood, and crosses out his Uncle. He can tell his teacher is upset, so he doesn't want to show his painting to his mother after school.
The next day, Miss Kelly brings in a Somali woman, named Fela. She asks Hassan about his painting. Hassan tells Miss Kelly and Fela about his homeland. He then tells them about what happened to his Uncle. Finally, he tells them his journey of hiding, running, loss, travel, fear, and change. When he is done telling his story, he can tell his teacher is moved.
Hassan asks to paint a new picture. After that, he plays with a boy from class. He brings his painting home and shows his family. His family is proud to hang the picture on the wall.
I love this book because it deals with hard issues of being a refugee in a way that is still appropriate for young readers. It doesn't gloss over the hard times, but it doesn't get into too much detail either. This book would be appropriate for 2nd-8th grade students. For my students, it would be a great mirror for their experiences as refugees. For students of other cultures, it would be a great window into the struggles and resilience of refugees.
The next day, Miss Kelly brings in a Somali woman, named Fela. She asks Hassan about his painting. Hassan tells Miss Kelly and Fela about his homeland. He then tells them about what happened to his Uncle. Finally, he tells them his journey of hiding, running, loss, travel, fear, and change. When he is done telling his story, he can tell his teacher is moved.
Hassan asks to paint a new picture. After that, he plays with a boy from class. He brings his painting home and shows his family. His family is proud to hang the picture on the wall.
I love this book because it deals with hard issues of being a refugee in a way that is still appropriate for young readers. It doesn't gloss over the hard times, but it doesn't get into too much detail either. This book would be appropriate for 2nd-8th grade students. For my students, it would be a great mirror for their experiences as refugees. For students of other cultures, it would be a great window into the struggles and resilience of refugees.
February 25, 2011
Published: 2002, Dial
Age: 4-8
Hassan is a little boy who has just emigrated from Somalia. He and his family had to leave because of the civil war there. It is his first day of school and everything is cold and gray and different from his homeland. He is very homesick. The students are nice to him but he doesn’t speak the language except for a couple of words. When his teacher gives him paints, he creates a nice picture of his home but then ruins it by splattering red paint and flames over it and smudging his uncle out of the picture. The teacher is sensitive and calls in a Somali interpreter to talk to him. He tells her the horrible things that happened to him and his family in Somalia. Then he paints happy, bright picture for his mother.
This is a story of a child's experience of terror and hope but told sensitively for little children. The author shows how children can express their feelings through art. Combining art therapy with counseling can help children adjust to new situations and learn to heal, although obviously, they would not heal as fast as Hassan did in this story. The beautifully painted illustrations exquisitely show Hassan’s feelings in his facial expressions and through the spacial relation between him and the other students. It also depicts the differences of his homeland vs. America. A very touching story.
Age: 4-8
Hassan is a little boy who has just emigrated from Somalia. He and his family had to leave because of the civil war there. It is his first day of school and everything is cold and gray and different from his homeland. He is very homesick. The students are nice to him but he doesn’t speak the language except for a couple of words. When his teacher gives him paints, he creates a nice picture of his home but then ruins it by splattering red paint and flames over it and smudging his uncle out of the picture. The teacher is sensitive and calls in a Somali interpreter to talk to him. He tells her the horrible things that happened to him and his family in Somalia. Then he paints happy, bright picture for his mother.
This is a story of a child's experience of terror and hope but told sensitively for little children. The author shows how children can express their feelings through art. Combining art therapy with counseling can help children adjust to new situations and learn to heal, although obviously, they would not heal as fast as Hassan did in this story. The beautifully painted illustrations exquisitely show Hassan’s feelings in his facial expressions and through the spacial relation between him and the other students. It also depicts the differences of his homeland vs. America. A very touching story.
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