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“Lyrical and uplifting text combined with gorgeous artwork masterfully tells a story of a young child struggling in a new environment and eventually gaining self-confidence and friendship of others.”

– School Library Journal, Starred Review

“The expressive illustrations start out in monochrome gray tones. Gradually the scenes become more colorful and, ultimately, quite vibrant as Mina slowly picks up her new language and begins to feel part of the group… This appealing picture book reflects the experiences of many immigrant children throughout the world.”

– Booklist

Mina Belongs Here

Written by Sandra Niebuhr-Siebert
Illustrated by Lars Baus
Published by Floris Books

Mina is worried about starting a kindergarten in her new country where the only word she can understand is her name. A warm and emotive story that explores how sharing a language can encourage a sense of belonging through a gentle story and lively illustrations.

At Mina’s kindergarten she listens to stories, songs and chatter in an unfamiliar language. She tries out sounds that roar in her throat and tickle her tongue until the new words feel like her own. Then one day, Mina realizes that this language now belongs to her, and she belongs to this new world.

Mina Belongs Here is a heartfelt and uplifting story of a migrant experience and discovering a sense of belonging through shared words. The expressive illustrations begin in muted monochrome, slowly transforming to vibrant color as Mina’s understanding grows.

Primary ISBN: 9781782508113
Publication Date: May 2023
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

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