The article discusses the birthday party of Lev, an eight-year-old Ukrainian boy who is struggling with isolation following his family's escape from war-torn Ukraine. Despite attending a birthday celebration in a multicultural setting, Lev finds himself without any friends from his new school, highlighting the challenges of integration faced by immigrant children. This situation raises questions about societal integration, the role of language in forming friendships, and the broader implications for immigrant communities in Italy.

Lev's mother shares the difficulties their family faces, including their home being destroyed in Ukraine and the bureaucratic obstacles preventing their return. The father's observation of a varied group of children speaking fluently in Italian implies a level of integration among others, yet Lev's experience underscores the unique struggles encountered by some immigrant children, particularly those tied to language differences. The lack of connection with his new classmates, who speak Arabic, emphasizes the barriers that can arise in multicultural environments.

This account serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of linguistic inclusivity and the emotional toll that feeling isolated can take on a child. It calls for a more supportive approach toward immigrant families and children in schools, fostering environments where friendships can transcend language and culture, contributing to a more cohesive and understanding community amidst diversity.