SHORTLISTED FOR THE CARNEGIE MEDAL FOR ILLUSTRATION 2026SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2026 UKLA BOOK AWARDS (Information 3-14)On the first day, we ate rice cakes. On the second day, they were all gone. On the third day, the water ran out. On the fourth day, we reached the sea…This picture book tells the moving true story of Chi Thai’s refugee crossing from Vietnam to the UK, at just four years old ... leaving her home behind, and setting out across the vastness of the sea in a tiny boat.

It's a deeply personal account, rooted in important history – and yet, her story resonates with those of families all over the world today, forced to make perilous journeys of their own.

Beautifully written by Chi, with striking illustrations by artist Linh Dao, this is essential reading for everyone.