No Ballet Shoes in Syria by Catherine Bruton

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

Aya is eleven 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.