The Redemptive Power Of “Here” Ferried by a “Story Boat”

Story Boat [Amazon | Book Depository]

Written by Kyo Maclear Illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh
Published by Tundra Books (2020)
ISBN: 0735263590 (ISBN13: 9780735263598). Bought a copy of the book. Book photos taken by me.

There are a number of stories that tackle the refugee experience: the migrant existence, the uncertainty, the unpredictability of an existence anchored on movement. Yet, this book, narrated in lyrical text (for which Maclear is known for) that builds up on words and phrases that cumulatively lead to the next stop in one’s journey, and accompanied by art that is both heartfelt and hopeful – is of its own league altogether.

I was also struck by the power of “here” – and where it resides. “Here” can be just here as the image above says, or it can also be a cup, or a blanket, or a moment:

It is a powerful expression of owning one’s now, and reclaiming one’s narrative, as ferried by a story boat that brings one (or many) to a “here” one can call home.

Find this book, read it aloud to as many people as you can. It is a gift.

#ReadIntl2020 Update: Rashin Kheiriyeh is from Iran