What would you do?

The Island

Written and illustrated by Armin Greder

Published by: Allen and Unwin Children’s Books

Published on: April 2008

Price: £11.99

ISBN:

First line:

Genre: Global Politcs, Refugees, Community

Thanks to my school’s Literacy Lead for the recommendation.

What’s it all about? The Island by Armin Greder is a surprising book. It deals with a very powerful message in a similar way to Animal Farm by George Orwell – it hides it (not so subtly in this book) behind a story. It really does make you think from both sides: what would you do? How would you react? What should we do?

Here a body is washed up on an island and the generic locals have to decide what to do with the man – this replicates what is happening around the world when refugees turn up at different countries doorsteps.

Why should read it? The pictures are aggressive and unsettling, but wonderfully drawn. The language is simple but effective. There is a lot of points for discussion in a Year 6 classroom or above. A fantastic read.