The Journey
Age 5+
Picture Books
“I look up to the birds that seem to be following us. They are migrating just like us. And their journey, like ours, is very long, but they don’t have to cross any borders.”
With haunting echoes of current affairs this beautifully illustrated book explores the unimaginable decisions made as a family leave their home and everything they know to escape the turmoil and tragedy brought by war. This book will stay with you long after the last page is turned.
Creators
Francesca is an Italian illustrator and graphic designer based in Switzerland. After she finished her studies in Cagliari, the main city of her beloved Mediterranean island (Sardinia) she said goodbye to her family and her cat (Berta) and moved to Germany before and Switzerland after, in order to follow her dream and be able to work as an illustrator. She graduated in 2015 from the Lucerne School of Art and Design with a Master of Design with focus on Illustration. The Journey is her first picture book.
Reviews
This is a stunning book. Its theme is uniquely represented by its illustrations which enhance and magnify the text. Sanna has achieved what she set out to do, and that’s to call attention to the plight of immigrants forced to take desperate measures to reach safety because of war.
Buzzwords
I absolutely cannot emphasise enough how touching and vital this book is, and I would encourage readers of all ages to pick it up and engage in the dialogue it opens up. Reading it sent shivers down my spine.
Readings
The illustrations in this book are moving and beautifully rendered, combining modern stylings with both retro and folksy colouring and patterning on uncoated paper. It’s pure visual joy that combines so beautifully with a deeply touching story about humanity and the current need, more than ever before, to connect with our fellow man.
Kids' Book Review
She tells a terrible story but has also created a beautiful moving work of art accessible to all. Highly recommended.
Reading Time
A thought-provoking picture book for mid-to-upper primary readers, worthy of much discussion. Recommended.
Magpies Magazine
