Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush
Written by Patrice Lawrence
Illustrated by Camilla Sucre
Published by Nosy Crow
This heart-warming and heartfelt debut picture book from multi-award-winning author Patrice Lawrence introduces the struggles and achievements of a generation of African Caribbeans who traveled across the Atlantic to call a new country home.
Ava is asked to dress up as an inspirational figure for her school assembly, but who should she choose? Granny suggests famous familiar figures such as Winifred Atwell, Mary Seacole, and Rosa Parks, and tells Ava all about their fascinating histories, but Ava’s classmates have already claimed them—and she must choose someone else. But who?
When Ava finds a mysterious old suitcase and Granny shares her own history, and how she came to England on the Empire Windrush many years ago. She tells her story through the precious items that accompanied her on the original voyage, each one evoking a memory of home. As Ava listens to how Granny built a life for herself in England—determined to stay against the odds and despite overwhelming homesickness—she realizes that there is a hero very close to home—her very own brave and beloved granny.
Primary ISBN: 9798887770338
Publication Date: May 2023
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Picture Book, Age 04 or older
Community Represented: Trinidadian/Trinidadian American
Themes: Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Identity, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Storytelling, Family Relationship: Grandparents, Generation: 2nd, Genre: Historical, Identity: Multilingual, Immigrant: Economic, Own Voices/Lived Experience
Setting: Trinidad, United Kingdom
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant, 2nd Generation
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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