Overview

Joda: The Girl Who Lives Out of a Suitcase is a poetic picture book about a young girl who carries her world in a single suitcase. Joda doesn't stay in one place, but she grows in everyone. From city streets to quiet train rides, she travels far to grow close to herself. Through gentle words and dreamlike illustrations, readers journey with Joda as she learns that home is not only a place on the map, but a feeling that lives within. The story invites children and families who move often-or anyone searching for belonging-to discover that peace can be found in the quiet spaces between destinations. At the heart of Joda's journey is a mindful awareness of breath and body. Being in the present allows peace and happiness to arise, rather than being carried away by thoughts-even the happy ones. That's where real peace lives, because it doesn't depend on thoughts or circumstances. When Joda pauses to notice the warmth of her breath, her wandering thoughts soften. She learns that by observing her breath, she becomes the gentle watcher of her emotions, not the one lost inside them-planting early seeds of emotional balance and peace. Inspired by author-illustrator Jayada S. Sarela's own experiences of growing up between cultures and practicing Vipassana meditation, Joda: The Girl Who Lives Out of a Suitcase reminds readers that awareness of breath can always bring us home-no matter where we are in the world. Joda lives out of a suitcase, exploring the world with curiosity and courage. Every city she visits and every quiet corner she discovers brings adventure, imagination, and lessons in resilience. This heartwarming picture book is perfect for children ages 4-8, but its universal themes of curiosity, self-discovery, and belonging make it enjoyable for readers of all ages. Ideal for reading together with parents, caregivers, or teachers, Joda's adventures invite meaningful conversations about travel, imagination, and life's little lessons. A whimsical story that sparks curiosity, encourages reflection, and celebrates the joy of seeing the world through new eyes.

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9786166297492

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Reviews

"" I can relate to Joda with the part of not feeling like I belong. I have Indian roots being 3rd generation Thai then being sent to boarding school at the age of 5 I always was looking where do I belong ? The goal is not to look outside but within. It's also a big part of the work I did to heal myself and as a Therapist helping others. I also loved the earth tone colour's and all the images in the book. Very easy read and impactful. Highly recommend."" - Areena Narang ""I enjoyed reading this book, ""Joda The Girl Who Lives Out Of A Suitcase"" which states how Joda's enlightenment enables her to realize her search is not outside of herself but always in her sacred being. The illustrations of earthy color tones are beautifully rendered and evokes precisely how Joda has evolved to be the person she really is."" - Bridget Benson ""I recently read this book, and it really left a unique impression on me. The illustrations are beautiful and match the tone of each scene perfectly. I could feel the sense of wandering and quiet reflection throughout the story. It's not a typical children's story, it feels deeper and more contemplative, which I found thought-provoking. Thank you for sharing your creative world with me."" - Eleanor Lim ""A very sweet book with a powerful message, perfect for kids of all ages and even adults too! 10/10 would recommend ����"" - Oli

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