The shortlists for the 2019 Independent Bookshop Week (IBW) Book Awards have been announced, and we are delighted that No Ballet Shoes in Syria by Catherine Bruton has been shortlisted in the Children’s category!
The shortlists of the IBW Awards, now in their 13th year, are voted for by independent booksellers, with the winners chosen by a panel of booksellers, authors and influencers, and announced on 14th June, the day before the official start of Independent Bookshop Week (15th-22nd June). You can find the full shortlists for the awards here.
A captivating story, filled with warmth and heart, with wonderfully authentic ballet writing and an important message championing the rights of refugees, No Ballet Shoes in Syria tells the story of Aya – eleven years old and newly arrived in Britain with her mum and baby brother, seeking asylum from war in Syria. When Aya stumbles across a local ballet class, the formidable dance teacher spots her exceptional talent and believes that Aya has the potential to earn a prestigious ballet scholarship. But at the same time, Aya and her family must fight to be allowed to remain in the country, to make a home for themselves and to find Aya’s father – separated from the rest of the family during the journey from Syria.
You can take a look inside No Ballet Shoes in Syria below:
And you can listen a preview of the audiobook edition here:
Congratulations, Catherine, and good luck!
