Sunflower
Ingrid Laguna
Jamila is happy in her new home in Australia, though she still misses her old life in Iraq. She and her new best friend Eva sing side-by-side in the choir at school and have picnics together on the weekends.
One day, Jamila gets some exciting news: Mina, her oldest friend from Iraq, is coming to Australia. Jamila can’t wait to see her and introduce her to Eva. But when Mina arrives, things do not go as planned.
Jamila feels torn between her two friends, and sad that Mina isn’t the same person she remembers. Can Jamila be a true friend to Mina, and help her feel safe and happy in her new home?
INTERVIEWS and REVIEWS
Kirkus Reviews
andSunflower
‘Sunflower is brave, moving and very real. Everyone growing up in Australia should read this book.’
‘A beautifully observed story of identity, friendship and belonging.’
‘I loved the story of Jamila and the resilience and bravery of her family. Jamila is a wonderful character, full of courage and heart, who children will relate to and learn from.’
‘A beautiful story full of hope, heartache and love.’
Jamila is a wonderful character and I really loved Songbird…It’s a beautiful, hopeful story about digging deep and helping those around you…a super-great read.’
‘A big-hearted novel…full of hope and humour.’
‘A moving, insightful book, informed by Laguna’s long experience as a teacher of migrant and refugee children and written with great clarity and empathy.’
“Real and honest… A poignant book about changing and growing friendships.”
