No Ballet Shoes in Syria cover art

No Ballet Shoes in Syria

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No Ballet Shoes in Syria

By: Catherine Bruton
Narrated by: Lara Sawalha
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About this listen

Aya is 11 years old and has just arrived in Britain with her mum and baby brother, seeking asylum from war in Syria.

When Aya stumbles across a local ballet class, the formidable dance teacher spots her exceptional talent and believes that Aya has the potential to earn a prestigious ballet scholarship.

But at the same time, Aya and her family must fight to be allowed to remain in the country, to make a home for themselves and to find Aya's father - separated from the rest of the family during the journey from Syria.

With beautiful, captivating writing, wonderfully authentic ballet detail, and an important message championing the rights of refugees, this is classic storytelling - filled with warmth, hope and humanity.

©2019 Catherine Bruton (P)2019 Nosy Crow Ltd Fiction Growing Up Growing Up & Facts of Life Literature & Fiction Music & Performing Arts Discrimination War

Critic reviews

"Wise and kind and unputdownable." (Hilary McKay, Costa Book Prize-winning author of The Skylarks' War)

"A moving story about one of the big issues of our time, told with wonderful clarity, and incredibly touching." (Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo)

"A perfect balance of tragedy and triumph." (Natasha Farrant, author of The Children of Castle Rock)
All stars
Most relevant
A young ballerina from Syria is seeking asylum in the UK. The ballet dancing is juxtaposed with brutality of war.
Two generations of people each with their own refugee stories collide.
Gives a snapshot of recent history.

A ballet dancer seeking asylum

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I love this book so much!! It’s so interesting and heartwarming to listen to (or read). I purchased this book in Waterstones but I did not read it but then I found it on audible so I got it on there! It’s was so lovely and emotional. Her ballet journey was so nice. This is a GREAT book! Would definitely recommend!💕💕

So intriguing!!

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loved it ....so many feelings felt through this books and it shows the plight of refugees in the past during ww2 to the present day

a heartfelt read

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The story was incredible. I had a powerful impact on how I saw the world. It was very sad and often made me cry but magnificent story all the same.😁

Amazing and sad

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This story highlights a more personal experience of Syrian refugee children. Whilst the plot is somewhat predictable, the characters are likeable and the story develops well. This would be appropriate for mature Year 5 or 6 children as some of story may upset them. However, the theme of hope and resilience runs throughout which creates an uplifting tale. A definite must read.

A well structured, enjoyable story

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