Thousands of Ukrainian children have been forced to flee their homes and relocate in other countries. Many packed precious mementos in their rucksacks. Wherever they relocated they had little access to books in their own language.

Created in collaboration with Children and War UK, the Rucksack Project is a book not only about the children of Ukraine, but for the children of Ukraine.

Written by Di Redmond and illustrated by Lilia Martynyuk, “Rucksack” describes one boy’s experience of losing his possessions and his attempts to replace his memories. The short picture book is aimed at preschool and primary age children and has been warmly received by the many who have been gifted a copy. It is accompanied by a booklet of advice to adults on how to listen to their child’s reactions and help them use some simple ways of dealing with stress reactions that are raised.

The funds raised will make it possible to distribute thousands of Rucksack books and help many children cope better.

What we do makes a difference

Now more than ever, children need help to cope with the trauma they're experiencing.

Children and War UK is working to give them essential tools to reduce the long-term effects of traumatic stress.

Thank you.