A unique counting book that celebrates diversity and explores themes of migration, refuge and acceptance

"A hopeful picturebook about refugees and the kind gestures that give a journey to a new country a happy ending, told by counting to 10: '1 boat...2 hands lifting us to safety.'"

"A unique counting book that's full of empathy and hope for children everywhere."

"At a time when we need kindness more than ever, this gorgeous book reminds us that the smallest gesture can make a difference to someone."

"A poignant book that centres on themes of migration, refugees and inclusivity...Not only is this beautifully illustrated, it educates children in a number of ways and is a great addition to an inclusive bookshelf."

"A refreshingly modern take on a traditional concept book, and tugs at the heartstrings with every turn of the page. Children of all ages will be compelled to return to this book again and again, as they shift from the pure joy of learning how to count, towards an understanding of complex ideas such as migration, inclusivity, and compassion."

“A counting book with a difference…The simplicity of the text is developed by Barroux’s delightful illustrations which give a gentle introduction to the journey a fleeing family might take, perfect for starting conversations with young children. Each kindness counted reinforces the need for empathy and care for others and the story ends by asking the reader how many ways they can think of being kind.”

"A gorgeous book...a great introduction for even the youngest of children to the idea of refugees and inclusivity. A beautifully hopeful book...demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can have profound impacts."

"A counting book with a difference...a warm celebration of generous welcomes and new beginnings."

"The warmth of the beautiful illustrations enhance the simple text enabling young readers to follow the journey of this refugee family and encouraging them to join in with counting...a gentle introduction to the plight of refugee children for the very young. It could provide the perfect starting point for conversations about this important topic in educational settings and at home."

"Very timely book about being kind to others, and instilling in them an unparalleled feeling of joy when you're around...Hollis' wonderful sentiments coupled with Barroux's brilliant illustrations make this one a mini wow for early years."

"A beautiful and unusual counting book redolent with empathy and inclusivity. Endorsed by Amnesty International this is an outstanding example of how a deceptively simple picture book can develop empathy and understanding. Highly recommended."

"Perfectly demonstrates a refugee journey in a way that children can understand."

"A wonderfully unique title that combines learning counting through themes of migration, refugees and empathy."

"It not only provides a strong story of hope and an optimistic future for refugee families but also succeeds in focussing on the quality and kindness in a range of situations...It deserves a place in every Early Years setting."

"A unique counting book that will be a great book to share with your little ones but equally it’s a fantastic resource for exploring empathy. On the surface this is a counting book but wow what a unique one …There is so much to explore and discuss at each turn of page." 

"In simple, appropriate, accessible terms, Hello: A Counting Book of Kindnesses, helps today’s children understand the welcome that tomorrow’s refugees will need."

“May this wonderful, simple book have wings to fly and melt the hearts that doubt its message."

"May this book challenge and inspire us to change our attitude, to open our eyes to the kindness around us, and to be kind ourselves.”

"I can imagine teachers using this book to stimulate meaningful dialogue about child refugees and foster empathy for those who go through such challenging experiences."

"Unusual and very original, this 1-10 counting book celebrates cultural diversity and gently explores migration, refuge and inclusivity."

"Above all else, a book of hope."

"This collaboration between a human rights activist and poet and an award-winning illustrator is so much more than just a tool for learning numbers and could be shared and used throughout the primary age-group for the discussions it will provoke."

"This richly coloured picture book provides an alternative way to learn to count, through simple acts of kindness. It encourages empathy and gently explores the situation of children who have to flee their home. Upholds children's rights to a safe home, education, play and friends."

"A simple counting format is blended with a powerful message of hope as young readers flow a family escaping danger on a small boat with the help of others. Hello! is an empathetic, humane and kind antidote to xenophobic rhetoric, suited to both  “people who help us” topics with younger children and discussions about refugees, migration and tolerance in KS2”

Hollis Kurman writes poetry and children’s stories. Hello! A Counting Book of Kindnesses was her debut picture book, followed by Counting in Green – Ten Little Ways to Save Our Big Planet. Both books are illustrated by Barroux. Her poems (one nominated for a Pushcart Prize) have been published in multiple journals. When not writing, Hollis moderates literary events and is Chairperson of the Ivy Circle Netherlands, is a member of the Board of Trustees of Save the Children NL, a member of the Fulbright Board NL, founder of the Human Rights Watch NL Committee and member of HRW Women’s Rights Advisory Council. She was born in New York but lives in an old canal house in Amsterdam with her Dutch husband.

Barroux was born in Paris and grew up in Morocco. He is the author and illustrator of many books, published all over the world, and children in need are a special theme of his. From the 2005 Enfantasie Award to the English PEN Award and the Prix Médecins Sans Frontières in 2015, he has won numerous honours and awards. His books include Line of Fire with Michael Morpurgo and Alpha with Bessora, as well as Hello! and Counting in Green with Hollis Kurman and I Love You, Blue, which he wrote and illustrated. Barroux lives in Paris.