Victoria Jamieson

I first listened to this graphic novel before reading the physical book, and it is difficult to say which is better, so I recommend both. The narrators do an incredible job of making you feel you are there (there is an entire cast), and the illustrations are drawn in a cartoon style, but it does not lose its realness or take away from the story's tone. The pictures of the refugee camp made me feel like I was there, in hot, scary, and crowded conditions. The story is about a boy named Omar in Kenya and is based on the author’s experiences as a refugee. From the start of the story, beginning in war-torn Somalia, even before he becomes a refugee, he takes care of his brother, who has disabilities. This does not stop when they get to the camp, and he has to navigate this violent and scary world while protecting his brother from harm as well. He is a loving brother, and the amount of hope he holds onto, even through devastating experiences, is inspiring and made me realize how hard life is for children in refugee camps. It is suitable for all children to read this book to know what life is like in this part of the world.… (altro)

Add this to the growing list of graphic novels with excellent female role models. While this is probably perfect for girls headed to middle school, I think the writing is of such quality that older readers (regardless of gender) will find it both nostalgic and reassuring. The farther I read along, the easier I found it to forget that Astrid was only a 5th grader. The art is pleasantly cartoonish without feeling young, and the colors are bright without becoming obnoxious. At the end of the day, this is a story about a person finding her way through changing times and realizing that relationships are not an either or proposition. It's the kind of thing we should all read and reread.… (altro)

Graphic novel about two brothers living in a refugee camp in Africa. Living in a refugee camp isn't easy. There's little to no resources, heartbreak, trauma, and hope is far away. This novel goes through Omar (the main character's) life and his journey battling the odds. Despite the circumstances, Omar goes to school, takes care of his family, and makes it to America along with his little brother Hassan.

I absolutely loved this book! It was so incredibly powerful and dealt with harder topics in a graphic novel setting. The story was so raw, beautiful and inspiring. If I were to teach an older grade, I would definitely use this book in the classroom. Due to the nature of the story, I would use this book in a middle school or high school classroom. It's a good conversation starter for a deeper discussion.… (altro)