THE JOURNEY by Francesca Sanna
HARDCOVER
Author & Illustrator: Francesca Sanna
THE JOURNEY asks: What is it like to leave everything behind and travel to somewhere unfamiliar and strange? Through the eyes of a child, we follow a mother and her two children as they set out on such a journey - one filled with fear of the unknown but also with great hope. Inspired by the real experiences of refugees, Francesca Sanna has created a sensitive and significant book.
The illustrations are powerful, rich with symbolism and emotion. Dark, looming shapes reflect danger and loss, while moments of light capture resilience, love, and the enduring strength of family. With simple text paired with haunting imagery, the book conveys both the unimaginable choices families must make and the humanity that carries them forward.
Sanna’s work is rooted in truth. The story grew from encounters with refugees in Italy and was shaped by interviews with people from many countries. Rather than abstract labels like “migrant” or “refugee,” this book presents the deeply personal realities behind those words, weaving them into a universal story of survival, courage, and hope.
The Journey is far more than a picture book - it is an invitation to empathy. It sparks conversations about displacement, compassion, and belonging; this is a story that stays with you long after the last page, reminding us of the strength and humanity within every journey.