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“The story offers young children an avenue toward connecting despite cultural differences, a message that, especially now, deserves to be amplified. A useful addition to collections in communities welcoming immigrants and refugees, especially with its celebration of inclusivity.”

—School Library Journal

Just Say Welcome

Written by Emily Raij
Illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama
Published by Kar-Ben Publishing

When a newly arrived Iraqi family comes to stay with Tilly’s family for a while, Tilly learns that welcoming the stranger is all it takes for strangers to become friends

Tilly loves having company. One day, Tilly’s mom says a family that has just arrived from Iraq will be staying with them for a while until they get settled in the community. “Just say ‘welcome!'” her mom says. “Sometimes that’s all it takes for strangers to become friends.” A man from synagogue brings over clothes for the children and a neighbor brings a pot of stew that smells “just like home” to the new arrivals. The Iraqi boy, Youssef, teaches Tilly’s brother soccer ball tricks. When an apartment becomes ready for the family, Tilly feels a little sad. “Thank you for welcoming strangers into your home,” Youssef’s mom says. “But you’re not strangers,” says Tilly. “We’re friends now and you’ll always be welcome here.”

Primary ISBN: 9798765619919
Publication Date: September 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

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