Leaving Home

From the main character, Alana: "Hi! My name is Alana. I am nine years old. My brother Aiden is six, and we live in the Philippines. We love living here . . . or we did until a few weeks ago. When we first heard about 'coronavirus,' it seemed like a far-away problem that only adults worried about, a problem that would eventually go away if we just waited and didn't think about it. Then, all of a sudden, everything changed!" 

Readers, enter the charmingly illustrated world of nine-year-old Alana and her younger brother Aiden as they struggle to understand the coronavirus pandemic. See how Alana faces her fears as her family prepares for a big move. As you take time to consider Alana's questions, you will no doubt find answers to some of your own.

Author and educator Tamara L. Ballast is no stranger to big moves. Being a Third Culture Kid taught her numerous lessons about navigating life, and in this wonderful story, she uses Alana's questions and experiences to teach children that they, too, can handle challenges like the coronavirus pandemic and relocation. They, too, can face their fears with the help of faith, family, and friends.