The Bicycle

Reach for this book when your child is feeling like an outsider, struggling to adjust to a new environment, or witnessing a peer who seems lonely or different. This moving true story follows Mevan, a young Kurdish refugee who has moved from country to country, eventually landing in a cold, unfamiliar place where she feels invisible. When a kind neighbor gifts her a bicycle, it becomes more than just a toy: it is a bridge to her new community and a symbol of belonging. Through atmospheric mixed-media illustrations, the book explores themes of empathy, resilience, and the profound impact of small gestures. It is an excellent choice for children ages 4 to 8 to help them understand the refugee experience through a relatable lens, like the joy of riding a bike. It serves as a gentle opening for conversations about how we can make others feel welcome in our own neighborhoods.