Out Now
Paperback | 36 pages | 230 x 230mm
Publication July 2024 | ISBN 9781802587050
Nominated for the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Illustration 2025
About the book:
In this allegory of migration, the dandelions – who are just weeds after all – are forced to move on when they are confronted with tools, machines and potions. So they float, taking their hopes with them, and go on a journey to find a peaceful place to reseed and settle.
About the author:
Margaret Anne Suggs is a children’s book illustrator and has published over a dozen books in four different languages. Margaret Anne was raised in the American Deep South but moved to Dublin, Ireland to pursue a Master’s Degree at the National College of Art and Design. She has completed an MA in Visual Communications and an MA in History of Design + Applied Arts. She serves on the Board of Directors for both Illustrators Ireland and the International Board on Books for Young People Ireland (IBBYIre). She lectures part-time at Ballyfermot College, where she founded the illustration course (Higher National Diploma).
Reviews:
'The simplicity of this allegorical story of immigration is a great way to introduce or begin to explain issues that affect so many in our world today.' Children's Books Ireland, Reading Together with Refugees Reading Guide
'Suggs’ gentle watercolour illustrations personify the resilience of the hopeful dandelions, evoking empathy for those in search of peace in a challenging world.' Ruth Concannon, Irish Examiner
'Thought-provoking and ultimately uplifting, this is a story that I guarantee will stay with you after it’s finished.' Books for Little Bookworms
'A seemingly simple story about seed dispersal that offers a good starting point for talking with very young children about humans who, in times of crisis, see no option but to flee their homes and seek sanctuary in another country.' Jill Bennett, Red Reading Hub
'Gentle, moving, comforting, affirming…..and dandelions. Such a lovely story. Just read it, share it.' Mary Esther Judy, Fallen Star Stories
'An utterly charming and gentle story showing children that sometimes movement and relocation are necessary, and that they can have a happy conclusion.' Armadillo Magazine
'Margaret Anne Suggs has created a story that can give readers flexibility. It can be a beautiful, quite literal story about the strength, beauty, and resilience that is found in nature, and as we open ourselves up more to viewpoints, and as young readers get that little bit more advanced, the book can be appreciated further, as we introduce young readers to wider conversations about migration in a very age-appropriate way.' Kate O'Brien, Kate Loves Literature