The Journey: questions to ask and activities to try
A mother and two children leave everything behind on a dangerous journey. The Journey is a powerful picture book about refugees and hope.
What age is it for? The Journey is best for ages 4–9. Good for: A family fleeing war.
Read it gently. Talk about what the family took with them, and what they hoped for.
What it helps with
- Refugees and war
- Fear and hope
- Family
- Empathy
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Why did the family leave?”
- “What did they take?”
- “How did they travel?”
- “What were they afraid of?”
- “What did they hope for?”
- “How can we welcome people who arrive?”
5-minute activities to try together
Hope bird
Draw birds flying to somewhere safe and write a hope on each.
Welcome
Talk about how to welcome a new family in your area.
Free printables: The Journey worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
The Day War Came (Nicola Davies and Rebecca Cobb)
- Best for
- A child forced to flee war, and a small act of kindness
- Age
- 5-9
My Name Is Not Refugee (Kate Milner)
- Best for
- A refugee journey, with questions for the reader
- Age
- 4-8
Wisp: A Story of Hope (Zana Fraillon and Grahame Baker-Smith)
- Best for
- Hope for a child born in a refugee camp
- Age
- 4-9
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.