“Ruurs writes purely and warmly, with the text set in both English and Raheem’s Arabic translation on each page, of a family who become refugees. She deftly conveys the happiness of peaceful childhood, then the confusion and the fears born of war and migration, and the relief and curiosity of arriving at a new home—and the uncertainty whether it will be forever… Each illustration is masterful, with Badr’s placement of stones as careful as brush strokes, creating figures positioned to tell the whole story without the benefit of facial expressions: dancing, cradling, working; burdened, in danger, at peace.”

“Readers of all ages will find things of value within the pages of the book…The photographed stone arrangements seem oftentimes to pulse with more life than one might think possible. Whether consciously or otherwise, given his media Badr has create figures that suggest the unbreakable spirit of people seeking freedom and opportunity…This rare treasure of a book is likely to remain highly sought-after for some considerable time…Highly recommended.”

“Readers will be fascinated by the stone-collage illustrations created by Syrian artist Badr, who arranges expressive tableaux of people formed entirely of rocks and pebbles…A unique offering that will open eyes and soften hearts.”

“Ordinary beach stones were used to make the three-dimensional collages in this arresting picture book…Stone by stone, step by step, it all adds up to a memorable look at what it means to leave one’s home in search of ‘a bright new future.'”

“Ruurs’ beautiful words are twinned with the most stunning artwork by Nizar Ali Badr…I could not but be moved by Badr’s work, as it is unlike anything else I have ever seen and conveys so much emotion. I hope this beautiful book will reach the shelves of classrooms, libraries and homes throughout the world and be read and shared many times over.”

“Brilliant and beautiful and inspiring. A book that should be read with every child in the world! An instant classic as solid as the stones on which it is based!”

“It’s exquisite! One can only pray that its message will spread and make the difference we need.”

“[An] excellent book that will help young readers understand what is happening to the children they see on TV. I can’t recommend [Stepping Stones] highly enough.”

“The lyrical phrasing of Margriet’s free verse narrative captures the eloquence and simplicity of young Rama’s reactions to her experiences…Badr instills life into his stone-art with seemingly simple shifts in background, angles, and minute adjustments of one stone in relation to another.”

“Stunning, original artwork both childlike and sophisticated; a text that will both break and mend your heart.”

“This is an amazing book!! Every teacher should own one.”