Despite the challenging experience of leaving his home in Vietnam in an old wooden fishing vessel, the terrifying ordeal of being robbed by pirates on the high seas and the heartbreaking loss of their food supplies during a wild storm, 'The Little Refugee' is infused with a sense of hope and optimism. Even though the pirates robbed them of all their worldly possessions, they spared the life of Ahn's younger brother AND tossed them a bottle of water. In retrospect, the water enabled them to keep living.

"What a great country" were the words spoken by Ahn's parents as they arrived in Australia, yet life in the new land was not without trying circumstances. Language difficulties, social isolation and the theft of three sewing machines were initial challenges that needed to be dealt with, yet with the help of a positive attitude and sheer determination, their tough start in the new land eventually became "ok in the end"

'The Little Refugee' is a wonderful tale of courage and resilience in the face of extreme adversity and will leave a lasting impact on all who read it.

The Little Refugee
by Anh Do and Suzanne Do.
Illustrated by Bruce Whatley

Allen and Unwin

AUD $24.99