Mustafa

Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving to a new neighborhood or starting at a new school where they feel like an outsider. It is particularly resonant for families who have moved across borders or cultures and are looking for a way to process the quiet, often overlooked feelings of invisibility that come with being the new kid. Mustafa is a young boy who has traveled from a land of smoke and fire to a new home that feels strange and lonely. He wanders the park, observing the world around him through a veil of language barriers and unfamiliar customs until a simple, wordless gesture of friendship from a girl with a cat changes everything. This gentle story focuses on the power of observation, the beauty of nature, and the universal language of play. It is a beautiful choice for children aged 4 to 8, offering a hopeful perspective on how we can belong in a new place without losing the memories of where we came from.