THE MOON FROM DEHRADUN

A child accidentally leaves a beloved doll behind when their family is forced to abruptly flee during the Partition of India.

It’s 1947, and Azra lives with their family in the Indian city of Dehradun. As Azra tells readers, Dehradun has been home to their family for generations, but lately they’ve noticed that everyone seems angry. While Azra’s mother explains that people are frightened, Azra still doesn’t fully understand as they hold Gurya, the doll that their grandmother made for them when they were a baby. Everything changes when Azra’s father rushes home just before dinner and announces that the family must leave immediately. With their dinner left untouched, the family quickly fills a few bags with their belongings and leaves, Azra soothing baby Chotu as they prepare. But when Azra realizes Gurya was left behind in the confusion, Azra’s father says they cannot turn back. Shamsi’s text vividly portrays the confusion and pain experienced by Azra’s family as well as the generosity of the strangers they encounter on their journey to their new home in Lahore. Relying on a muted palette and loose yet expressive linework, Lak skillfully conveys the uncertainty and fear felt by those who endured Partition. The book’s sweet conclusion also illuminates the power of new beginnings in desperate circumstances. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A poignant and memorable tale.