The Day Saida Arrived by Susana Gomez Redondo, illustrated by Sonja Wimmer, translated into English by Lawrence Schimel is one of the finalists for the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award, which is awarded in January 2021. It is the only book among the 12 finalists that has been translated from another language.
The annual Jane Addams Children’s Book Award recognizes children’s books of literary and aesthetic excellence that effectively engage children in thinking about peace, social justice, the global community and justice for all people.
– Click on the cover of the book for more information –
The English edition, published by Blue Dot Kids Press in September, has already received outstanding press reviews:
“A lyrical, playful book about immigration, respect, learning, and friendship across cultures. Remarkably, the exchange between the two new friends presents the two languages and cultures as equal and the learning as reciprocal, offering a great resource for learning about immigration and cultural difference.” ―Kirkus Reviews
“A beautiful reminder that keeping open hearts and minds to others will be one of the most important things we’ll ever do.” — Booksfor Diversity.com
“This gorgeous book is a celebration of language and words, as well as a touching friendship story about welcoming a new immigrant and finding a way to communicate…. The whimsical illustrations show words of every type scattered about the pages, sometimes hiding, sometimes playing, in both English and Arabic. Love, love, love.” ― Abby Johnson, Collection Development Lead, New Albany-Floyd County Public Library
“Each child’s knowledge and competence is equally valued as the two embark on a balanced friendship …” ―Publishers Weekly
“Exploring and widening each other worlds through language and friendship, these girls are a model for promoting a culture of welcoming and belonging.”―Abdelaziz Rhazzali, I’m Your Neighbor Books