Published by Viking Books for Young Readers

Summary:  Oraib and her family live in a refugee camp with olive trees nearby.  As she watches her mother curing and brining the olives, she wonders how people first came to eat the bitter fruit.  The trees also provide wood and oil for those living in the camp.  One day, Oraib sees her mother packing olives and learns that war has come to the region. The family must once again pack up and move, just like her parents did when they were forced to leave their home before Oraib was born.  Before leaving, Oraib plants an olive pit, promising that one day she’ll return to harvest the olives.  An author’s note tells about her grandmother, the inspiration for Oraib, whose family was displaced from their home in Palestine.  Includes photos of the family.  40 pages; grades K-3.

Pros:  Beautiful illustrations and a moving story bring to life the plight of a refugee Palestinian family during the 1950’s.

Cons:  I was struck by how much this photo in today’s New York Times looks like Oraib’s camp.