List of 20 about refugees books

1. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

What is this book about?

"The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini tells the story of Amir, a privileged boy living in pre-war Kabul, and his complex relationship with Hassan, the son of their Hazara servant. Amir and Hassan share a deep bond, spending their days kite fighting and exploring their neighborhood. However, their friendship is shattered by a traumatic event that exposes the deep social divides and inequalities in Afghan society. Haunted by guilt and betrayal, Amir flees with his father to America as the Soviet invasion throws Afghanistan into turmoil. Years later, Amir receives a call that compels him to confront his past and return to his war-torn homeland to atone for his sins and perhaps find redemption.

Who should read this book?

• People who enjoy historical fiction
• Readers interested in Afghan culture
• Those seeking emotionally resonant stories
• Fans of character-driven narratives

Awards

• Borders Original Voices Award
• Humo's Gouden Bladwijzer
• Exclusive Books Boeke Prize
• ALA Alex Award
• Puddly Award

✨ Read more: best books about redemption

2. Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

What is this book about?

"Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys is a harrowing historical fiction novel that follows the converging journeys of four young refugees fleeing the Soviet advance in East Prussia during World War II. Told from multiple perspectives, the story unveils the horrors of war and displacement through the eyes of Joana, a Lithuanian nurse haunted by her past; Emilia, a pregnant Polish girl desperate for safety; Florian, a Prussian art restorer harboring a secret; and Alfred, a naive German soldier clinging to hope. As they struggle to survive the brutal winter and desperate flight towards the port of Gotenhafen, their paths collide aboard the Wilhelm Gustloff, a German military ship with the promise of evacuation. However, their hopes for freedom are tragically shattered when the ship is torpedoed in the icy Baltic Sea, resulting in one of history's deadliest maritime disasters.

Who should read this book?

• History buffs
• Young adults
• Fans of historical fiction
• Readers who enjoy character-driven narratives
• Anyone interested in World War II stories

Awards

• SCBWI Golden Kite Award
• Audie Award
• South Carolina Book Award
• Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award
• Rhode Island Teen Book Award

3. We Are Displaced by Malala Yousafzai, Liz Welch

What is this book about?

'We Are Displaced' is Malala Yousafzai's deeply personal and moving account of displacement, told through her own experiences and the stories of other women and girls she met on her journeys. The book goes beyond her own forced displacement after the Taliban attack to explore the broader global refugee crisis, weaving together stories of hope, resilience, and the fight for education and a better future. Through these interwoven narratives, Yousafzai illuminates the human cost of conflict and persecution, urging readers to see refugees not as statistics, but as individuals with dreams, aspirations, and the right to a safe and secure life.

Who should read this book?

• Young adults
• Activists
• Readers interested in current events
• Those seeking inspiring stories
• Anyone who enjoys memoirs

4. A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende

Contributor: Nick Caistor(Translator), Amanda Hopkinson(Translator)

What is this book about?

"A Long Petal of the Sea" by Isabel Allende follows the poignant journey of Victor Dalmau, a young doctor, and Roser Bruguera, a pregnant widow, as they flee the aftermath of the Spanish Civil War. Forced to leave their beloved Barcelona behind, they find refuge on the Winnipeg, a ship chartered by Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, which carries them to a new life in Chile. Their path is marked by love, loss, exile, and the enduring spirit of resilience. Over decades, Victor and Roser navigate the political landscape of Chile, witnessing both the hope of Allende's socialist government and the devastating brutality of Pinochet's dictatorship. Through their experiences, Allende weaves a rich tapestry of history, family, and the enduring search for a place to call home.

Who should read this book?

History buffs, romance readers, fans of magical realism, anyone interested in Chilean history, and anyone who enjoys a sweeping family saga.

Awards

• Goodreads Choice Award

5. Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour

Contributor: Daniel Egnéus(Illustrator)

What is this book about?

"Lubna and Pebble" by Wendy Meddour, illustrated by Daniel Egnéus, is a poignant story about friendship, resilience, and hope within the harsh realities of a refugee camp. Lubna, a young girl forced to flee her home due to war, finds solace and companionship in a pebble she discovers on the beach of a refugee camp. She names him Pebble and shares all her worries and dreams with him. When another child arrives at the camp, scared and alone, Lubna finds the strength and compassion to offer her friendship and share Pebble's comforting presence. The story delicately explores themes of displacement, loss, and the power of human connection to provide comfort in challenging circumstances.

Who should read this book?

Here's who should read "Lubna and Pebble":

• Young children
• Adults reading aloud to children
• People who like heartwarming stories
• Anyone learning about empathy

Awards

• NCTE Charlotte Huck Award

6. The Ungrateful Refugee by Dina Nayeri

What is this book about?

"The Ungrateful Refugee" delves into the complexities of displacement and assimilation through the poignant journey of an Iranian refugee as she navigates life in the West. Fleeing political persecution, she grapples with cultural differences, survivor's guilt, and the constant pressure to prove her worth as a refugee. While struggling to reconcile her past with her present, she confronts prejudice and misunderstanding from those who expect gratitude instead of acknowledging the trauma and loss she carries. Through her experiences, the book challenges stereotypes and reveals the multifaceted realities of refugee life, highlighting the resilience and strength required to rebuild a life shattered by displacement.

Who should read this book?

• People interested in memoirs.
• Readers who enjoy immigrant stories.
• Those seeking to understand the refugee experience.
• Individuals interested in social justice issues.

Awards

• Los Angeles Times Book Prize
• Kirkus Prize

7. Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

What is this book about?

In Mohsin Hamid's "Exit West" Saeed and Nadia, living in an unnamed city teetering on the brink of civil war, find their lives irrevocably intertwined. As violence engulfs their city, they embark on a perilous journey, seeking refuge and a chance at a new life. Their escape route, however, is unlike any other—mysterious doors appear, acting as portals to different parts of the world. This blend of magical realism and stark reality underscores the universal desire for safety, love, and belonging in a world grappling with the complexities of migration and displacement.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of magical realism
• Readers interested in current events
• Those who appreciate love stories
• Anyone seeking thought-provoking fiction

Awards

• Booker Prize
• Los Angeles Times Book Prize
• Dayton Literary Peace Prize
• National Book Critics Circle Award
• Andrew Carnegie Medal

8. Refugee by Alan Gratz

What is this book about?

"Refugee" by Alan Gratz weaves together the stories of three young individuals fleeing unimaginable hardship in different eras: Josef, escaping Nazi Germany in 1938, Isabel, sailing from Cuba during the 1994 exodus, and Mahmoud, seeking refuge from war-torn Syria in 2015. Though separated by time and geography, their journeys intertwine through shared experiences of loss, fear, and the desperate search for safety and a new home, highlighting the timeless and universal plight of refugees.

Who should read this book?

• History buffs
• Anyone who enjoys a good cry
• Readers who love multiple perspectives
• People who enjoy realistic fiction
• Those interested in stories about resilience

Awards

• Buxtehuder Bulle
• Texas Bluebonnet Award
• Flicker Tale Children's Book Award
• Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award
• Vermont Golden Dome Book Award

9. The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri

What is this book about?

'The Beekeeper of Aleppo' tells the story of Nuri, a beekeeper, and his wife, Afra, an artist, whose peaceful life in Syria is shattered by the outbreak of civil war. Forced to flee their beloved Aleppo, they embark on a harrowing and perilous journey seeking refuge in Europe. As they navigate the treacherous path of displacement, Nuri clings to the memories of his bees and their honey, symbols of hope and the life they left behind. Afra, traumatized by a profound loss, struggles to see the world through her artist's eyes. Their journey is fraught with danger, loss, and the constant fear of an uncertain future, but their love for each other and the glimmer of hope for a new beginning keeps them going.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in stories about refugees.
• Fans of historical fiction.
• People who enjoy character-driven narratives.
• Those seeking emotionally impactful stories.

Awards

• Dayton Literary Peace Prize
• Aspen Words Literary Prize

10. The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui

What is this book about?

"The Best We Could Do" is a poignant graphic memoir by Thi Bui that delves into the intertwined histories of three generations of her Vietnamese-American family. It traces their experiences during and after the Vietnam War, exploring themes of displacement, trauma, family secrets, and the enduring search for identity. Through her evocative illustrations and intimate prose, Bui reconstructs her parents' harrowing escape from a war-torn country, their struggles to adapt to life in America, and the lasting impact these experiences had on her own upbringing. The memoir grapples with the complexities of intergenerational trauma, forgiveness, and the search for belonging in the face of immense loss and cultural displacement.

Who should read this book?

• History buffs
• Graphic novel enthusiasts
• Anyone interested in immigration stories
• People seeking powerful memoirs
• Readers who enjoy beautifully illustrated books

Awards

• Harvey Awards
• National Book Critics Circle Award
• Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards
• Japan Media Arts Festival (Manga Division) 文化庁メディア芸術祭
• Goodreads Choice Award

11. The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar

What is this book about?

Nour, a young girl, finds her life in modern-day Syria ripped apart by war. Seeking refuge, she and her family embark on a perilous journey to safety. As they flee across borders, Nour finds solace and strength in a fantastical tale woven by her father about a mapmaker's apprentice in medieval times. The magical narrative becomes intertwined with Nour's own experience, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, past and present, as she navigates the treacherous path to a new home and a future unknown.

Who should read this book?

• Readers who enjoy historical fiction
• Anyone interested in Syrian culture
• Fans of magical realism
• Those seeking beautifully written stories of resilience
• Readers who appreciate books with strong female protagonists

Awards

• Goodreads Choice Award

12. The Good Immigrant by Varaidzo, Chimene Suleyman

Contributor: Nikesh Shukla(Editor)

What is this book about?

"The Good Immigrant" is a thought-provoking anthology featuring essays by Black, Asian, and minority ethnic writers in Britain. These personal and insightful pieces explore the complexities of living as minorities in a predominantly white society, grappling with microaggressions, stereotypes, and the constant pressure to prove their worth. They challenge the notion of a singular "immigrant" experience while highlighting the shared struggles, triumphs, and unique perspectives of individuals navigating identity, belonging, and what it means to be "good" in a society that often perceives them as otherwise.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in social justice
• People wanting to understand contemporary Britain
• Those seeking diverse voices in literature
• Fans of personal essays
• Anyone who enjoys thought-provoking reads

Awards

• Books Are My Bag Readers' Awards

13. The Bone Sparrow by Zana Fraillon

What is this book about?

Subhi is a young refugee girl who has lived her entire life within the fences of a detention center, her world limited to its walls and the stories passed down by her mother. When the fences are expanded and a group of new arrivals bring hope and danger, Subhi's carefully constructed world begins to unravel. As she forms a forbidden friendship and discovers the power of language and storytelling, Subhi must confront the harsh realities of their confinement and fight for her voice to be heard, both within the camp and beyond its unforgiving barriers.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in social justice issues
• Fans of powerful stories about resilience
• Those who appreciate beautifully written prose
• People seeking empathetic portrayals of refugees
• Young adult and adult readers alike

Awards

• Children's Book Council of Australia Award
• Victorian Premier's Literary Award
• Australian Book Industry Award (ABIA)
• Carnegie Medal

14. The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf

What is this book about?

"The Boy at the Back of the Class" tells the story of Ahmet, a Syrian refugee who arrives in a British classroom, unable to speak English and carrying the weight of a silent sadness. His new classmates are curious about him, particularly a kind and determined girl named Alexa, who befriends him and makes it her mission to reunite Ahmet with his family. As the children learn about Ahmet's past and the reasons he had to flee his home, they rally together, devising a daring plan to help him. The book beautifully captures the power of friendship, empathy, and the importance of speaking up for what is right, highlighting the experiences of refugees with sensitivity and hope.

Who should read this book?

• Young readers (ages 8-12)
• Adults who enjoy heartwarming stories
• Anyone looking for a book about empathy
• Those interested in stories about refugees
• Readers who appreciate books with positive messages

Awards

• Blue Peter Book Award
• Deutscher Hörbuchpreis
• Jhalak Prize

15. The Arrival by Shaun Tan

What is this book about?

"The Arrival" is a wordless graphic novel that tells the story of an immigrant man leaving his wife and daughter behind to journey to a new country in search of a better life. Through stunningly detailed sepia-toned illustrations, we follow his journey, experiencing the disorientation of navigating a foreign land with unfamiliar customs, language barriers, and a pervasive sense of loneliness. He encounters other immigrants, each with their own stories of hardship and resilience, and gradually builds a new life while cherishing the memories of those he left behind, hoping one day to be reunited.

Who should read this book?

• Graphic novel enthusiasts
• Readers of all ages
• Fans of Shaun Tan's work
• Those who appreciate visual storytelling
• Anyone who has experienced immigration (either personally or through family history)

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Locus Award
• New South Wales Premier's Literary Award
• Western Australian Premier's Book Award
• Children's Book Council of Australia Award

16. The Refugees by Viet Thanh Nguyen

What is this book about?

"The Refugees" is not a novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen. He wrote a short story collection with that title, which explores the lasting effects of displacement, trauma, and the search for identity in the lives of Vietnamese refugees navigating new lives in America. Through interconnected stories spanning different decades, we encounter characters grappling with survivor's guilt, cultural differences, strained family relationships, and the complexities of assimilation, offering a poignant and multifaceted look at the refugee experience and its enduring impact.

Who should read this book?

• Readers of literary fiction
• Those interested in the Vietnamese diaspora
• Fans of short story collections
• Anyone seeking emotionally resonant stories
• Readers who appreciate nuanced explorations of identity

Awards

• Goodreads Choice Award
• Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature
• Aspen Words Literary Prize

17. The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf

What is this book about?

Set in 1969 Malaysia during a period of racial tensions and violence, "The Weight of Our Sky" follows Melati, a 16-year-old girl with obsessive-compulsive disorder, who becomes separated from her mother during a deadly riot. Fearing for her safety and determined to reunite with her family, Melati embarks on a perilous journey across the city, finding unlikely allies and strength she never knew she possessed. Woven into her present-day struggle is the story of a djinn, a mythical being who haunts Melati's thoughts and represents the weight of her mental illness, adding a layer of magical realism to the already gripping narrative.

Who should read this book?

• Young adult readers
• Fans of historical fiction
• Those who enjoy magical realism
• Readers interested in Malaysian culture
• People who appreciate stories about mental health

18. The Day War Came by Nicola Davies

Contributor: Rebecca Cobb(Illustrator)

What is this book about?

"The Day War Came" tells the story of a young girl whose life is upended when war forces her to flee her home and seek refuge in a new country. With only a treasured teddy bear by her side, she faces fear, uncertainty, and the indifference of others as she seeks a place of safety and belonging. The book poignantly captures the emotional toll of displacement and the plight of refugees, particularly children, while emphasizing the importance of compassion, empathy, and offering a welcoming hand to those in need.

Who should read this book?

• Young children (ages 4-8)
• Parents
• Teachers
• Those seeking books about empathy and kindness
• Anyone looking to start conversations about refugees with young children

Awards

• Kate Greenaway Medal
• Jane Addams Children's Book Award
• NCTE Charlotte Huck Honor Book

19. The Red Pencil by Andrea Davis Pinkney

Contributor: Shane W. Evans(Illustrator)

What is this book about?

"The Red Pencil" tells the story of Amira, a young Sudanese girl whose world is disrupted when civil war breaks out, forcing her family to flee their village. Amidst the chaos and loss, Amira finds solace in a gifted red pencil that becomes a symbol of hope and a tool for self-expression. Through poetry written from Amira's perspective, the book chronicles her journey as a refugee, the challenges she faces in a new country, and her determination to use her voice and creativity to find her place in the world.

Who should read this book?

• Young readers (ages 9-12)
• Poetry lovers
• Those interested in stories about Sudan
• Readers who appreciate books with strong female characters
• Anyone seeking inspiring stories about resilience

Awards

• NAACP Image Award
• Children’s Africana Book Award

20. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba, Bryan Mealer

Contributor: Anna Hymas(Illustrator)

What is this book about?

"The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind" is the inspiring true story of William Kamkwamba, a young boy growing up in poverty in rural Malawi. When a devastating famine strikes his village, William is forced to drop out of school and his family faces starvation. Determined to find a solution, William uses his ingenuity and resourcefulness to build a windmill from scraps found in junkyards, bringing electricity and hope to his community. This memoir of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education highlights the importance of innovation and one person's ability to make a difference even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Who should read this book?

• Readers of inspiring memoirs
• Those interested in stories about overcoming adversity
• People who enjoy stories about ingenuity and innovation
• Young adults and adults alike
• Anyone seeking a hopeful and uplifting read

Awards

• Children’s Africana Book Award