The Girl at the Front of the Class by Onjali Q Rauf

The Girl at the Front of the Class is a heartwarming picture book that introduces younger readers to the themes of empathy and the refugee experience. The story follows a young boy named Adam who notices a new girl, Layla, sitting at the front of his classroom looking sad and withdrawn. After learning from the adults in his life that Layla is a refugee who had to flee her home, Adam decides to use his kindness and creativity to make her feel welcome. Through a thoughtful drawing, he reaches out to her, demonstrating how simple acts of friendship can help someone feel safe in a new place.