The Girl Who Saw Lions

Berlie Doherty's 'The Girl Who Saw Lions' is a poignant chapter book that weaves together the stories of two girls: nine-year-old Abela in Tanzania, who loses her family to AIDS and is then illegally trafficked to England by her uncle, and thirteen-year-old Rosa in England, whose family is preparing to adopt a child from Tanzania. Told in alternating voices, the narrative explores themes of profound grief, survival, the perils of illegal immigration, and the enduring hope for family and belonging. This book is suitable for readers aged 9-13, offering a sensitive yet unflinching look at challenging global realities through the eyes of resilient young protagonists.