Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have lived in a refugee camp in Dadaab, Kenya, since Omar was four years old. An older woman, Fatuma, lives in a tent across from them and watches over them.
The harsh realities of refugees are depicted well. The story of these two boys and their ways of survival will capture readers' hearts.
Omar is admirable brother and young man. In his narration, however, he does not shy away from sharing his flaws.
God is mentioned throughout the book. I think the god he is referring to is Allah. Omar learns from the Quran and prays in the fashion of a Muslim.
I would discuss this book with your child---refugees, war in Somalia, special needs children, death of parents, how women/girls are treated in third world countries.
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.
Awards it won:
National Book Award Finalist
Schneider Family Book Award, Middle School Honor
YALSA Great Graphic Novel for Teens
YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Nominee
Walter Award Winner (Younger Readers)
Amazon Best Children’s Book of 2020
New York Times Book Review Notable Children's Book
TIME Best Book of the Year
School Library Journal Best Book of 2020
Kirkus Best Children’s Book of 2020
NYPL Best Book for Kids
NPR's Book Concierge Pick
Jane Addams Children's Book Award Finalist
Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book
2021 ALSC Notable Children’s Books List
2021 Children’s Africana Book Award Honor Book
2021 Josette Frank Award Winner
2021 Notable Books for a Global Society List
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