The Bone Sparrow cover art

The Bone Sparrow

A Refugee Novel

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The Bone Sparrow

By: Zana Fraillon
Narrated by: Gareth Locke
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About this listen

Shortlisted for the Guardian Children's Fiction prize 2016.

Perfect for fans of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas.

This is a beautiful, vivid and deeply moving story about a refugee boy who has spent his entire life living in a detention centre. This novel reminds us all of the importance of freedom, hope and the power of a story to speak for anyone who's ever struggled to find a safe home.

Born in a refugee camp, all Subhi knows of the world is that he's at least 19 fence diamonds high, the nice Jackets never stay long, and at night he dreams that the sea finds its way to his tent, bringing with it unusual treasures. And one day it brings him Jimmie.

Carrying a notebook that she's unable to read and wearing a sparrow made out of bone around her neck - both talismans of her family's past and the mother she's lost - Jimmie strikes up an unlikely friendship with Subhi beyond the fence. As he reads aloud the tale of how Jimmie's family came to be, both children discover the importance of their own stories in writing their futures.

©2016 Zana Fraillon (P)2016 Orion Children's Group Fiction Geography & Cultures Growing Up Growing Up & Facts of Life Literature & Fiction Oceania Friendship Feel-Good

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Critic reviews

"...a special book." (Morris Gleitzman, author of the acclaimed Once series)
All stars
Most relevant  
Thought provoking. Deals with the very relevant issue of refugees. There but for the grace of God go I. It shows how we can learn so much from children, their love and acceptance breaks down barriers.

You must listen to this story.

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moving beautiful and important story. fantastic narration. it really makes you think. highly recommended.

brilliant

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i thought it was O U T S T A N D I N G.

odd but enjoyable

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A beautifully narrated tale with a message that should resonate with modern audiences.
Wonderful depth and spirit.

A timeless message, poignant for our age...

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Based on real refugee camp accounts in Australia. The story carries the tale of dreamlike hope and survival despite the inhuman treatment of some of the most traumatised and vulnerable people in the current crisis.

a refugee story of fantasy and truth

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I did a mix of reading and listening to this story, with a fair chunk of time wrestling with my social conscious. Whilst terrible injustices, it is a balance between those persecuted and those just seeking economic advancements. I do hope this book turns a light on the fair treatment of all, with a change to swift and supportive decision making. Would love to know what happens next.

A great eye opener

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I loved this book and found it deeply moving, but I see it is recommended for children from the age of five! I would never read it to a young child!
It is so scary and deals with the death of siblings and parents, necessary to teach children but not in such detail and frequency!

A harrowing read

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Honestly the narration made me cringe and rather spoilt the book for me. It was amateurish, one dimensional and some of the pronunciation set my teeth on edge. The story is ok and obviously has a serious message, but the whole thing just felt a bit shallow and didn’t really go anywhere. I’m a bit perplexed by reviews a containing words like ‘haunting’ and ‘moving’. In my opinion: just ok.

Irritating narration

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