The Closest Thing to Flying

There is a diary hidden within the battered market stall hat, adorned with a coloured bird. Semira begins to read the words of a girl from a century before, secretly. Like Semira, Henrietta is trapped. One is a refugee, hiding from the authorities and Robel. The other is confined by propriety and fear. What can Semira learn from Hen’s experiences? What can each learn from the courage of Kitty?

‘The Closest Thing to Flying’ is an inspiring, truthful and empathetic story. We long for both girls to break out of their respective confines, for their mothers, and aunt, to show courage and take chances. I needed to read this book. It lingers within me. Gill Lewis has created an exceptional story.