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What You Need to Be Warm

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What You Need To Be Warm – a poem of welcome

What You Need To Be Warm is a beautifully illustrated book of poetry written by UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, Neil Gaiman. It is about our right to feel safe, whoever we are and wherever we are from. It is about holding out a hand to welcome those who find themselves far from home.

The book features new illustrations from Chris Riddell, Benji Davies, Yuliya Gwilym, Nadine Kaadan, Daniel Egnéus, Pam Smy, Petr Horácek, Beth Suzanna, Bagram Ibatoulline, Marie-Alice Harel, Majid Adin and Richard Jones, with a thought-provoking cover from Oliver Jeffers.

Sales of every copy of the book – including all author proceeds – help support the work of UNHCR.

The genesis of the book goes back to 2019, when Neil asked his Twitter followers: What reminds you of warmth? Thousands of responses later, Neil began to weave replies from across the world into the poem that was knitted into a giant solidarity scarf to raise awareness and funds for UNHCR’s Winter Appeal. Subsequently, it was made into an award-winning animated film and now it is published in hardback featuring stunning original artwork.

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Buy the book

English language versions shipping worldwide.

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Buy the book in Australia

Available soon in other language versions including, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Sales of every copy of the book will help support the work of UNHCR and raise awareness of our Winter Appeal.

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Keep refugees warm with Neil Gaiman

“Gale force winter storms tear through camps and settlements, terrifying vulnerable displaced families sheltering from the elements. Please donate today – every one of us can take action that will help save lives and give a little warmth to someone who needs it.”

Donate now

What You Need to Be Warm – animated film