Rue has a backpack as big as her dreams—patched, worn, and bursting with possibility. One bright morning, she zips it up, waves goodbye, and sets off to explore the world. From the colourful chaos of India’s Holi Festival to the quiet hush of Egypt’s golden dunes, Rue collects memories from every place she visits – tucking leaves, postcards, powder, and laughter into her ever-growing red backpack.

The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack is a heartwarming, adventure-filled picture book that takes young readers on a vibrant journey across the globe. Through Rue’s eyes, we glimpse the beauty, wonder, and wildness of the world – from maple forests in Canada and wild animal safaris in Tanzania to cherry blossoms in Japan and glowing lanterns in Vietnam. Each destination adds a new treasure to Rue’s backpack – and a deeper understanding of the world to her heart.

Inspired by the author’s own 410-day solo journey across the globe, this story celebrates curiosity, courage, and the magic of travel. Perfect for little explorers and dreamers, this book reminds us that the world is wide and waiting – and that every adventure begins with a single step and a backpack full of wonder.

Sarah Steger is an Australian journalist, lifelong adventurer, and a big kid at heart. Growing up across four continents, she grew up curious about the world and its many stories. Her 410-day solo backpacking journey across the globe, which she embarked on shortly after turning 30 and quitting her job, is what inspired The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack – her debut children’s picture book. Sarah has travelled to more than 70 countries on her own and believes that the best way to explore this magical world is by being brave, curious, and kind. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking, scuba diving, or reading.

Customer Reviews

5.0

6 reviews

Zach

This endearing tale, inspired by the authors own adventures, introduces kids to the joy, simplicity, and wonder of travel and cultural diversity. It teaches that in this increaingly digital age, all you need is curiosity and your own two feet to be happy!
Nicole Hare

The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack is a fun read that sparks curiosity and imagination. The memories Rue collects along her travels is a gentle reminder to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and to remember the world is full of colourful adventures. I enjoy reading this book with my daughter, and it has inspired us to collect items to put in our imaginary backpack everyday.
Kate Hadley

In a world filled to the brim with negative headlines and seemingly-endless bad news, The Girl Who Carried the World in her Backpack is a bright light in the darkness. It encourages kids big and small to broaden their perspective by opening their minds and their hearts and exploring what the world has to offer. The message is beautiful: collect memories, experiences, lessons: not things. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone who loves to travel, to discover new cultures, and to learn about the world around them.
Natasha Clancy

When today's society is often fueled by dopamine hits from screens and materialism, this book sparks curiosity and wonder of the world and what's possible. It encourages travel and creating memories. It focuses on nature's beauty and joyful moments. The deeper message is being courageous and brave, to explore your passions and the world around us. Just what our youth need to hear, and perhaps what adults need to be reminded of. It's a fun and inspiring story that can be enjoyed by all.
Jess

This delightful children’s book “The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack” by Sarah Steger celebrates the importance of bravery and curiosity in order to travel and create beautiful memories. Told through a curious and adventurous lens, the story gently encourages young readers to be brave as they explore the wonders of the world with wide eyes and an open heart. The author’s own journey is thoughtfully woven into the narrative, giving the book a personal and authentic feel that remains engaging and accessible for children. With its warm illustrations and welcoming tone, the book shows that bravery is the first step towards adventure, while noticing small details helps create beautiful memories to treasure and share. Overall, this is a sweet and inspiring read that encourages children to be brave and curious to travel the world and collect beautiful memories along the way.
Jamie

The Girl Who Carried the World in Her Backpack is a lovely book by Sarah Steger that tells the wonderful story about a little girl who is courageous enough to follow her heart. This book sparks curiosity about the big wide world we live in and what it would feel like to explore it. Sarah manages to write about the things we gain and learn when we travel in a way that brings joy and excitement to the reader. The idea that you take something different from each place that you visit is profound and she describes it in a way that is digestible for young readers. Rue’s wish to have curious feet and a brave heart is one so many of us have, and Rue inspires us to follow that call and make our dreams come true. I can't recommend this book enough; it is heart-warming and beautiful and encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and into exciting new worlds.