Lost Words: An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope

By Leila Boukarim and Sona Avedikian

Based on a true family story, this inspiring picture book about the Armenian Genocide shares an often-overlooked history and honors the resilience of the Armenian people.

What is it like to walk away from your home? To leave behind everything and everyone you’ve ever known? Poetic, sensitive, and based on a true family history, Lost Words follows a young Armenian boy from the day he sets out to find refuge to the day he finally finds the courage to share his story.

“It is difficult to find the words to describe the type of loss a Genocide can cause to a young child. I’ve been looking for something similar for my own son. This picture book is a good start to help explain loss and raise the many questions necessary to start the conversation.”—Serj Tankian, activist, artist, and lead vocalist for System of a Down

INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTION: This story is a reassuring testament to the bond between parent and child, and the love people pass down to future generations through shared stories.

ENCOURAGES COMPASSION: In the midst of the current international refugee crisis, stories of refugees and immigrants are an evocative reminder of the importance of showing kindness and empathy to strangers from all walks of life.

UNIVERSAL STORY: While this story specifically centers Armenians, it also speaks to a shared experience of many people across the globe. Reckoning with loss after a traumatic event is a common experience that many people can relate to, but the poignancy of this story delivers a powerful message of hope, courage, and remembrance.

UNDERREPRESENTED NARRATIVE: There are thought to be well over one million Armenians in the U.S., yet there are no known picture books about the Armenian Genocide. This moving portrait of family is a recognition of strength and resilience in the face of oppression, and a loving ode to a thriving community that refused to be silenced.

Perfect for:

• The Armenian and Armenian American community
• Anyone interested in learning about Armenian history and culture
• Readers seeking engaging stories of migration and refugee experience
• Parents and grandparents
• Teachers and librarians

• Language: English
• Publisher: Chronicle Books Digital
• Release date: Mar 26, 2024
• ISBN: 9781797218137

Leila Boukarim

Leila Boukarim writes stories for children that inspire empathy and encourage meaningful discussions. She enjoys reading (multiple books at a time), embroidering, nature walking, and spending time with people, listening to their stories and sharing her own. Leila lives in Berlin, Germany. You can visit her at leilaboukarim.com.

Book preview

Cover: Lost Words, An Armenian Story of Survival and Hope by Leila Boukarim and Sona Avedikian

View of Mount Erciyes from Everek, Armenia (now Develi, Turkey)

Eternal thanks—

first and foremost, to Haig. This book is for you.

To my beautiful boys, for your endless love and support.

To my writing family, for your patience, guidance, and friendship.

To my Armenian family and friends, for sharing your stories with me.

To Elizabeth and Hannah, for believing in this story and helping me share it.

—L. B.

For my loving family.

—S. A.

Text copyright © 2024 by Leila Boukarim.

Illustrations copyright © 2024 by Sona Avedikian.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in