Nadia’s Shoes is a children’s picture book about a friendship that started at the fence of a hospital. Nadia was on one side of the fence. She was in the hospital yard in a wheelchair. Her parents died in an air attack and Nadia was the only one to survive. Her dream was to walk again. Zoya was on the other side of the fence. She was begging on the sidewalk just outside the hospital doors. She had no relatives. Her dream was to buy a pair of shoes for the coming winter. The two girls become fast friends and tell each other stories and sing songs. One day, the mailman comes and delivers a package to Nadia. What happens next is proof that in every human heart there is a very precious corner. A corner that people have to nurture, protect and grow as it is the priceless corner of goodness and selflessness.
HERE IS A FIVE STAR REVIEW PUBLISHED ON REEDSY.COM
Nadia's Shoes written by Marin is one of those rare books whose impact would stay in one’s heart and soul long after it has been read. It would take the reader to a war-torn land where children like Nadia and Zoya are left to struggle on their own after the tragic death of those whose lives have suddenly been stolen by senseless violence and conflicts.
What would be the fate of children whose lives would be harshly scarred by war? How would they even begin to hope again in the midst of the darkness surrounding them?
The story does not mince with words when it introduces the two girls and their tragic lives. Nadia’s inability to walk after surviving a bomb attack is both haunting and symbolic. Her solitary life at the hospital without anyone to rely on speaks so much about the depths of her grief.
On the other hand, Zoya’s life as an orphan after her parents were killed years ago is a living witness to the lingering shadows that bind the victims to their past tragedies.
The friendship that is formed between the two is indeed a ray of light that shines in the midst of the hellish world they’ve been living in. This was masterfully presented in the book not only through words but through its powerful illustrations.
The artistry of this book, both in the use of words and in its surreal illustrations is so moving that it could very well drive you to tears. It can lead you to the innermost depths of your soul where you can rekindle kindness and compassion towards other human beings. It can unveil before your eyes the truth between good and evil as well as the consequences of our choices on other people’s lives.
In the end, it’s still those who are young at heart that could save us through hope. They are ones who could still see what little light remains after a catastrophe. They are the ones who could remind us that it is still possible to love and to be loved despite the brokenness that has touched us all.
SEVERAL MORE REVIEWS PUBLISHED ON GOODREADS.COM:
This is a touching and heartwarming tale that depicts the harsh realities of war and conflict in our world today. The illustrations are very realistic and it is a book that will be enjoyed by adults and children. In conclusion, I only have 1 word, EYEOPENER. (*****)
"This short, simply told story packs a punch so unexpectedly in the very last line of the book that it will leave you reeling..." (*****)
"Nadia's Shoes is a very touching story. I shed a tear while reading it with my dear Timmy...(****)