Boo lives with his family,
In their house at the end of the street.
They’ve lived there for years,
They built it from skyblocks and mooncrete.
Zig is a teacher, Pax is a nurse,
Their love is as wide as the whole universe.
Their smoots are flooping with joy,
In their house at the end of the street.
All is well… except for the dreaded Klang!
A lyrical, heartwarming tale about standing up to bullies and staying connected, even when all hope seems lost.
The Street - £10.99 | ISBN: 9781838346140 | Paperback
Size: 279.4mm x 215.9mm | 40 pages
Reviews
The Street has received some wonderful reviews.
Click on the picture to hear Dr Fen Coles from Letter Box Library give her review. (Opens in Instagram)
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"In The Street, Kate Rafiq crafts a powerful story to teach children about injustice and how nonsensical and cruel it is. Rafiq's soft, colorful illustrations against the deep purple and pink skies give an interesting somber feeling to the story, showing a world where joy is fought for and happiness is fleeting. It ends hopefully with the planting of seeds but with the reality of uncertainty and the understanding that they will have to continue to work hard for their survival and remain connected to their land and their community. It isn't a pretty picture, but it is real and shows what resistance and resilience against injustice and oppression really looks like."
Ambata Kazi, Author
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Rafiq has created a moving and timely story, set in a lush, fantastical world and brought to life with whimsical illustrations and a vivid, dreamlike palette. The Street is a thoughtful introduction to heavy themes like injustice and colonialism, told in a way that’s accessible to children but also resonant for adults. A powerful, thought-provoking tale of home, resistance, community, and the enduring strength of hope under oppression.
Salma Ali, Children’s Illustrator
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The Street is a beautifully written picture book that lingers long after the last page. It follows Boo and his family, who have to flee their homes as the dreaded Klang take over, and blends lyrical writing with vibrant illustrations to tell a story that is both tender and powerful. Through Boo’s eyes, readers experience the loss of home and the quiet bravery of starting over. Despite its fantasy setting on a different planet, the emotions - fear, love, resilience - are deeply real. The Street opens the door to important conversations, offering a perspective on displacement that is accessible and moving at the same time. Additionally, it includes a glossary of words used on Boo’s planet, which welcome the reader to his world. A must-read for children!
Thalia S.A, Author & Illustrator
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‘Birmingham Boy’ (Kate’s first book) was an absolute favourite of my son Jonah, so we were excited to dive into her latest story. The Street is a beautifully written book that explores important themes in a way that’s both accessible and engaging for children. The illustrations are stunning, and the playful, thoughtful language kept my five-year-old completely hooked. I genuinely enjoyed reading it with him too! The story gently encourages kindness, compassion, and community, which are exactly the kinds of values I want to instil in my child.
Dani Saunders, Brummy Mummy
