top of page

The Kites Are Flying!

Author:

Michael Morpurgo

Illustrator:

Laura Carlin

Published by:

Walker Books

First Published:

3 Mar 2016

Ideal for readers age

9-12y

My Review

Controversial because the story focuses mostly on the Palestinian side of the dividing wall, it nevertheless does an excellent job of introducing the theme of conflict and war to a younger audience, in a way which clearly yearns for peace and strives for hope. I love the ending of the book, and the way Morpurgo plants the seeds of hope in the common joy found in a kite as Said's kite drifts over the wall and is caught by a little Israeli girl. His messaging is subtle but strong - at the end of the day, we are all human....children, most of all, it seems.

Heads Up!

There is, of course, trauma in this story - Said does not speak because he saw his brother shot by Israeli soldiers.

Publisher Review

From the former Children's Laureate and author of international phenomenon War Horse comes a moving tale celebrating the bright light of humanity surviving even in the darkest conflict. Travelling to the West Bank to witness first hand what life is like for Palestinians and Jews living in the shadow of a dividing wall, journalist Max strikes up a friendship with an enigmatic Palestinian boy, Said. Together the two sit under an ancient olive tree while Said makes another of his kites. When Said takes Max home, the reporter learns of the terrible events in the family’s past and begins to understand why Said does not speak. Told from both Max’s and Said’s points of view, Morpurgo has created a beautiful tale of tragedy and hope with an ending that rings with joy.
bottom of page