Laila’s Story by Mij Tanith

88

Moving from overseas to settle in Australia is becoming more difficult, particularly for refugees from war-torn countries, who often have great difficulty in acquiring the required paperwork.

Accomplished playwright, poet, and author of both fiction and non-fiction, Mij Tanith, in her latest book ‘Laila’s Story’, has given the reader insight into the difficult journey of one family of refugees, as they navigate the process of resettlement.

In January 2023, the author was approached by an Afghan man, who was a long-term refugee living in Australia, to help an Afghan woman obtain a visa. She had fled the Taliban and was living in precarious conditions in Iran with her five daughters.

Mij Tanith and her friend Sue, as part of Circle of Friends, had volunteered tirelessly to support and advocate for refugees. Initially cautious, the author and her partner, Sue, became interested in helping this family. Thus began their journey through the complexities of the Australian immigration system.

The reader soon realizes that helping Laila and her daughters resettle in Australia required a team of skilled individuals, fundraisers, migration agent, publicist etc. Not only does this book comprehensively trace the complex process of obtaining the appropriate paperwork for the family but it also highlights the unexpected growing relationship between the author, Laila and her daughters.

Written in a touching blend of narrative and verse, the reader obtains a greater understanding of the plight of refugees and their desire for a better life.

For those who believe that anything is possible with a ‘can-do ‘ attitude, community action, determination and tenacity, this moving story is for you.

Reviewed By Nan van Dissel