A children’s book focused on welcoming refugees and immigrants has recently surged in popularity, reaching the top 10 of the New York Times bestsellers list months after its initial release. Titled *Our World Is a Family*, the book offers a gentle narrative designed to teach children about empathy, inclusion, and the experience of displacement without explicitly referencing political or legal terminology.

The story originated from the experiences of co-author Miry Whitehill, who has spent over a decade assisting refugee families as part of her nonprofit organization, Miry’s List, based in Southern California. As a single mother in Los Angeles, Whitehill sought to explain to her own children why resettled families often faced hardships, such as lacking basic household items, and how neighbors could extend kindness and support. “When we see someone new in our neighborhood,” the book asks, “how can we help them feel safe and loved and important? How can we tell them you’re not alone?”

In 2019, writer Jennifer Jackson approached Whitehill about creating a children’s book that would encapsulate Miry’s List’s mission. Jackson structured the text, while illustrator Nomar Perez provided vibrant, evocative imagery that depicts children in situations ranging from huddling on a boat to playing inside during uncertain times. The book was published by Sourcebooks Kids in 2022 and initially sold steadily but did not chart.

The book’s breakthrough came in late February when Maya Le Espiritu, a prominent figure on the social media platform BookTok, featured *Our World Is a Family* in a series of posts promoting books that encourage raising inclusive and socially conscious children. After she singled out the book with a discounted price offer, interest skyrocketed. Within hours of the posts going viral, stock sold out, and within two weeks, the book reached number nine on the New York Times bestsellers list. Heather Moore, executive director of impact publishing at Sourcebooks Kids, said the publishers were prepared for increased demand and emphasized the company’s intentional focus on producing literature that supports children’s understanding of social issues.

While the book avoids direct political discussion, its message resonates amid ongoing concerns about displaced populations worldwide. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reported that by 2025, more than 117 million people were displaced globally due to persecution, conflict, and environmental crises. The book’s narrative sidesteps naming specific causes and geopolitical conflicts, instead offering a universal perspective that recognizes the shared humanity of those forced to leave their homes.

The simple but powerful reminder at the heart of *Our World Is a Family* is that children and families anywhere might undertake dangerous journeys in search of safety. Its authors and supporters hope the book will foster compassion and inclusion as communities across the United States grapple with questions about immigration and resettlement.