A graphic novel memoir of Omar and Hassan Mohammed, two boys, who's father is killed, and get separated from their mother while fleeing the Somalian civil war. Now, having spent years in the Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya, Omar retains the hope of reuniting with his mother, and returning to Somalia. Life in the camp is difficult. He must care for his younger brother who has seizures and doesn't speak. He must wait in long lines to get minimal food and water. Life is desperate. But Omar and Hassan are supported by the community around them, by Fatuma, their "foster" mother, his best friend Jeri, and inspiration from two bright girls, Maryam and Nimo.
Omar is encouraged by his friends to go to school. Omar feels that is out of the question as he must care for his brother. Fatima steps in and tells Omar to go, she will take care of Hassan. Omar is behind others his age, and he's not sure how he will fit in. With support from Jeri, Maryam and Nimo, Omar achieves beyond his expectations, developing into one of the highest achieving boys in his class. As he meets new people, his goals have changed to become a social worker to assist refugee families. While his goal has changed, his love for his brother and search for their mother have not. Omar faces much hardship and challenge in trying to make his dreams a reality.
The graphic format using Victoria Jamieson's clean, simple, artwork will make the intimacy and touching struggle of the Somalian refugees vivid and comprehensible to a young audience. There is much to discuss here, and in light of current events, the topics are relevant and important.
Mark's Book Picks Score: 4.5
Reading Level: 3.7 • Interest Level: 4-7 • AR Points: 4.0 • Lexile Level: GN530L • Dewey: 921 • Publisher: Penguin • Pages: 256 • Copyright: 2020 • ISBN: 978-0-525-55290-8 • Available in Perma-Bound Binding
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