New Canadians Centre Launches Children's Book Inspired by Newcomers to Peterborough
/Author and illustrator Casandra Lee has brought six children’s stories to life in her new book, “Building a Home” during a book launch at the New Canadians Centre (NCC) on Monday.
Jorge Escalera (far right), poses with his family at Monday’s book launch. Escalera is one of six children whose story inspired Building a Home. Photo by Angela O’Grady.
The book draws inspiration from children experiencing new cultures for the first time after immigrating to Canada.
Bhisham Ramoutar, NCC communication and engagement specialist, had the idea for a book two years ago when a newly immigrated family was served pizza for the first time.
“We got thinking about all the big things and the small things that children have to face when they come to a new country,” said Ramoutar. “We wanted to find a way to share those unique experiences.”
When Lee began volunteering at the NCC, Ramoutar knew he had found the perfect candidate to bring his idea to life.
Lee met with the six children that were from Syria, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Pakistan. They currently live and attend school in Nogojiwanong–Peterborough.
“Writing ‘Building a Home’ was really a dream come true for me,” she said. “Working directly with children and then translating that into a written, illustrated children’s book was really special.”
Casandra Lee reads Building a Home at the launch on Monday. Photo by Angela O’Grady.
