With beautiful, captivating writing, wonderfully authentic ballet details, and an important message championing the rights of refugees, this is classic storytelling - filled with warmth, hope and humanity.
WINNER of Books Are My Bag Readers Award 2019
WINNER of Angels and Urchins Book Travel Award for Older Readers 2019
Nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal 2020
Aya is eleven years old and has just 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.
More Recognition for No Ballet Shoes in Syria:
Catherine Bruton was born in the North West, where she attended the local comprehensive before graduating with a first class degree in English Literature from Oxford.
In her twenties, she worked in Namibia and South Africa, teaching in bush schools and working with street children in the townships. Catherine then went on to teach at some of the top scho
