Home Is a Door We Carry is a hard book to read, and not just because of the subject. There was a flowing issue for me. Things are simple and at times almost too simple for my personal tastes. Maybe different art could have enhanced my personal journey, but also I know that this is what author Constantin Satuppo needs to tell his story.
Satupo is trying to give you the emotions of refugees (the voices of the children seen in the images) having to leave their homes behind. But not just the physical things such as the house, or the gardens but also emotions and especially the good memories of being between the walls. As well as anything normal seeming: going to school, having friends, playing. Based off his personal experiences after the Russian invasion of the Ukraine, current events are given a voice for the younger reader, but also for multiple ages. It is not “dark or too deep” but as most sensitive subjects, know your reader/listener.
The idea of being able to fold up a home to allow shelter, allow a feeling of safety again, to have a place to call home (and not just walking, or riding in trains, cars, trucks) is obvious, but not heavy handed. It plays on the emotions of the character and readers, making their point with little confusion. It has simplistic images that are basic and minimal in detail and colors. It is a book that speaks to the reader on their own level, who will take away from things because of their own experiences and feelings.
Due in April 2026 I want to read the final version as I do not feel this is a book that is best read online (as I did in a reader copy) but needs that mess of holding it, feeling it, even smelling it.