New children's book inspired by Harrisonburg refugees

A new children's book on refugees is inspired by students right here in the Friendly City.

Stone Spring Elementary teacher Lauren Pichon wrote the book, "Messages from Maryam," to help people of all ages understand what refugees go through.

"Messages from Maryam" tells the story of two girls emigrating from Mosul, Iraq to the United States. The girls write letters to each other about their immigration experiences, time in refugee camps and what America is like.

Pichon said the book was inspired by her newcomer students and she hopes to spread understanding.

"You're able to form such a unique bond with them and really help them not only learn the language but also how we act in school in the states and just basic life skills that you don't think about like counting money," said Pichon of her students.

Pichon added,"As a refugee community, it's important that we understand that background so that we can embrace them and give them tools to cope with the change and help them."

You can find the book on lulu.com by searching "Messages from Maryam" and it will be available on Amazon by the end of next month.

Or you can find at this link right