The Moon from Dehradun

Written by Shirin Shamsi · Illustrated by Tarun Lak

A girl faces a daunting journey, leaving her cherished doll behind. Can she find strength alone?

4.6 Goodreads · 246 ratings

40 pages· 951 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud· AD530L

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In the wake of India's partition, young Azra must leave her ancestral home, clutching her doll Gurya as a piece of comfort. But when her family is forced to flee suddenly, Gurya is left behind. Azra embarks on a perilous journey, grappling with loss and uncertainty. Will she find the courage to endure the separation and the unknown future? This poignant tale captures the resilience of millions displaced, through the eyes of a brave girl navigating a world turned upside down.

From the publisher

A Bank Street Best Children’s Book of 2023 A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2022 A Society of Illustrators Original Art Show Selection In time for the 75th anniversary of the Partition of British India, this picture book is a stirring account of the harrowing journey faced by millions of migrants in the aftermath of the division of India and Pakistan. Azra knows that wherever she goes, her doll Gurya will follow. Even if it’s on a train that will take her far away from the house her family has lived in for generations. Even if there is a new flag flying in Dehradun, and no place left in it for Azra. At least she will be taking a piece of home with her. But when Abba comes home and says they must leave right now, Gurya gets left behind in the scramble. Will Azra be strong enough to face the long journey alone? And what will happen to Gurya, now hundreds of miles behind them? Inspired by the author’s family story, this lyrical, moving picture book is a testament to the strength, courage, and perseverance of the over 10 million refugees displaced by the largest forced migration in recorded history, and shares a young girl’s journey from her old home to a new one.

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