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“Weaves compelling facts about the conflict between the Arabs and the Kurds into a gripping tale about one family’s escape to freedom.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“An important contribution to the growing number of refugee stories.”

—Kirkus Reviews

Kiss the Dust

Written by Elizabeth Laird
Published by Macmillan Children's Books

Tara is an ordinary teenager. Although her country, Kurdistan, is caught up in a war, the fighting seems far away. It hasn’t really touched her. Until now.

The secret police are closing in. Tara and her family must flee to the mountains with only the few things they can carry. It is a hard and dangerous journey – but their struggles have only just begun. Will anywhere feel like home again?

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: October 2025
Available As: Paperback, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , ,

Setting: Kurdistan

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country, Refugee

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