They Came in Boats

About the Book

This collection of poems spans many years of reflection on leaving one’s homeland and settling in a new place. People leave for many reasons: climate change, wars, or simply wanting a better chance in life. This phenomenon has become increasingly evident. Years spent teaching English to high school students and adults from many different countries has provided insight into the painful process of feeling at home in a place other than one’s homeland. Is it possible to be kind to newcomers, to welcome the talents that they bring, and to live in harmony?

About the Author

From migrant child to lecturer of English, Josephine has had many roles, her most precious being a nana to five grandchildren. Sympathetic to the plight of people who leave willingly or are forced to flee their homeland, she has written for many years on this topic, hoping to sensitize people to their plight and the uniqueness of being bicultural and loving two countries. We can choose to harden our hearts and believe that others are not entitled to share in our good fortune, but Josephine believes it is the countries that show kindness and welcome newcomers that will thrive. She would like to bequeath to her grandchildren a world that is more just and kind and the awe that comes from understanding the fragility of human beings, relationships, and the environment.