Synopsis: This is the true story of Gervelie and her family who had to leave the Republic of Congo in 1997 when fighting broke out. The family was torn apart forever. Gervelie and her father escaped and travelled to the UK to seek asylum. A very personal refugee story of despair leading to hope.

Review: Gervelie was born in the Republic of Congo but she and her family had to flee to safety in 1997. Over the next 7 years their was no security in her life as she and her father moved from place to place, country to country and continent to continent. At the end of her story, Gervelie says she feels safe in Norwich but acknowledges that even this may not last. However, she now feels secure enough to have aspirations for her future. What a contrast to her life in 1997.

Anthony Robinson has an interest in comparing and contrasting real children’s lives, and Gervelie’s voice is certainly one that needs to be heard. He tells her story in her own powerful words. It is supported by photographs and June Allen’s evocative watercolours. Horrific images of chaos and danger are softened by Allen’s watercolour images through her colour-wash style which blurs the edges of figures and makes them seem less threatening. Two different fonts signify a clear distinction between Gervelie’s story and the supporting information about the Republic of Congo provides a useful background context.

By encouraging young readers to talk about how their lives compare and contrast with Gervelie’s, teachers / parents / carers can guide children through the issues thrown up in this very personal ‘Refugee diary’ – displacement, family breakdown, war, freedom, uncertainty, loss, distance, happiness, memory and a lot more. It would suit older children in this age group as an independent read. As it says on the jacket cover this book ‘is testament to all the people who are forced to leave their homes in the struggle to be free’.

Buy this Book

2008-04-24