The true story of how a simple act of kindness changed a young refugee’s life – from award-winning author Patricia McCormick with Mevan Babakar.

The true story of how a simple act of kindness changed a young refugee’s life – from award-winning author Patricia McCormick with Mevan Babakar.

For generations, Mevan and her family lived in their beloved Kurdistan. But when they are forced to flee by the Iraqi government, Mevan must leave everything behind. Her family travels from country to country in search of safety; and with each stop, Mevan feels more and more alone. Until … a stranger’s gift changes everything.

Based on Mevan Babakar’s own childhood, this is a moving reminder of how powerful just one act of kindness can be.

Details

ISBN13: 9780008720391
Format: Paperback / softback
Number of Pages: 32
Edition:
Publication Date: 18 Jul 2025
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication City, Country: United Kingdom
Dimensions (cm): 27.5(H)x24.5(L)x0.2(W)200
Weight (gm): 200

Author Biography

Patricia McCormick is a writer and teacher of creative writing. She lives in New York City with her husband and two children. Cut is her first novel. Yasmin Imamura is an illustrator of many picture books for children including (Kirkus-starred) Winged Wonders by Meeg Pincus and The Very Oldest Pear Tree by Nancy Sanders. She's also a product designer for clients like Anthropologie, Papyrus and Sanrio. She currently lives and works in Portland, Oregon. You can visit her at yasimamura.com.

Reviews

"[An] absorbing, moving picture book" – The Guardian

"A powerful story of resilience and hope" – Scope for Imagination blog

"A beautifully heartwarming story of the power of kindness.” – My Shelves Are Full blog

“I really, really loved this book. […] My Mummy and I talked about how one simple act of kindness can change a person’s life. I hope I can continue to be this kind when I am a grown up.” – Noah, age 6, Books Up North

"This poignant tale reminds us of the life-changing impact of kindness, offering young readers an inspiring glimpse into the refugee experience and the healing power of human connection" – Inis magazine

"This moving story is definitely one of 2025's essential picture books… It truly shows the power of kindness and will generate such rich conversations in the classroom or in homes whilst reading. With beautiful illustrations too, this is a book you must read!” – Tom Griffiths, Check 'Em Out Books

"[A] very special book to share and one that… primary schools should add to their library shelves." – World's Smallest Library