
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, feeling uprooted, or struggling to maintain their sense of self in a restrictive new environment. This story follows young Abia, who lives in a refugee camp but transforms her daily reality through the power of play and imagination. While the setting is specific to the refugee experience, the emotional core speaks to any child needing to reclaim their agency and dignity when their outside world feels small or difficult. Through the lens of a princess ruling her kingdom, Abia navigates the chores and challenges of camp life with grace and resilience. It is a gentle but profound tool for parents to discuss empathy, global citizenship, and the idea that our inner worlds can provide sanctuary during hard times. The book is ideally suited for children ages 4 to 8, providing a safe entry point into complex global topics through a relatable, spirited protagonist.
The book deals with the refugee experience, displacement, and poverty. The approach is direct but filtered through a child's perspective, making it accessible rather than overwhelming. The resolution is hopeful but realistic, acknowledging that leaving the camp means starting over yet again in a place where they may not know the language.
Any child beginning to ask questions about why some people live in tents or carry their belongings in bags.
Read this cold to preserve the emotional impact, but be prepared to explain what a refugee camp is. There is a helpful Author's Note at the end that provides context about the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya which inspired the story. A parent might choose this after hearing their child complain about a lack of toys or space, or after seeing news footage of global migration and wanting to humanize the experience for their child.
A 4-year-old will connect with the "princess" play and the bond between siblings. An 8-year-old will better grasp the gravity of the "waiting" and the systemic reality of living in a camp for one's entire life.
Unlike many refugee stories that focus on the dangerous journey, this book focuses on the long middle: the years of waiting. It elevates the child's imagination as a valid and powerful survival tool.
Abia has lived in a refugee camp for seven years, longer than she can remember living anywhere else. To cope with the monotony and hardship of waitlists and dusty tents, she imagines herself as a princess overseeing a vast kingdom. Her "royal duties" include fetching water and caring for her younger brothers. The story follows her daily routines, highlighting the contrast between the harsh reality of the camp and the vibrant, hopeful internal world she builds until her family finally receives word that they are moving to a new home.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review