Graffeg scoops debut picture book on refugees from Latimer 

Graffeg has acquired the debut picture book from author and illustrator Miriam Latimer. The Colour of Home will be published in October 2024 with financial support from the Books Council of Wales.

Publishing director Matthew Howard and managing director Peter Gill acquired the worldwide rights from Alex Bushell at The Plum Agency.

The Colour of Home is inspired by Latimer’s experiences of supporting Syrian refugees and is her first picture book as an author.

The synopsis reads: “When Ana leaves everything she knows and loves behind to escape the turmoil of war, she struggles to settle into her new home with Olive and her family. Olive has some adjustment struggles of her own, but when the girls draw together, Ana’s drawings show Olive what she has left behind. Olive realises what Ana has had to sacrifice for the simple right to be safe and wants to help. Little by little, her kindness and love help bring colour back into Ana’s world. A powerful and poetic book about a new home and new hope that will stay with you long after the last page has turned.”

Latimer is an award-winning illustrator, author and potter, and has illustrated over 25 books. She previously won a Children’s Book Gold Award with the Association of Illustrators.

Latimer said: “I am excited to be working with Graffeg to get The Colour of Home published and onto bookshelves. This book is about welcoming refugees and embracing newcomers, and how that person might be a friend that you just don’t know yet.”

Howard added: “Graffeg are delighted to be working with author and illustrator Miriam Latimer on this beautiful, touching and important story. Miriam’s tale points towards a hopeful future for everyone, where acceptance of others leads not only to safety and security for those seeking help, but also to an enriched sense of self for those who offer it. We’re delighted Miriam has brought her talents to Graffeg and look forward to the impact this book will have.”