This is a very, very slow moving book about a little boy who does not want to move away from his beloved home in Oman to his new home in Michigan. I liked the writing, but my children and i all could not finish it as a bedtime book, because nothing was going to happen. ( )

This is a touching story that empowers readers, encouraging them to embrace their heritage and value and respect others cultures and heritages. ( )

A young boy fears leaving his familiar home in Oman to travel across the world to the United States. While his mother and grandfather address his fears, he puts off packing his bag. Children facing a move to the unknown might find this book an understanding companion. ( )

This is a charming novel about Aref, who has to leave his home in Oman and go to America for three years with his parents. This means leaving his grandfather, Sidi. We meet Aref trying to pack his suitcase for America and not wanting to engage. His parents are busy and it is Sidi who helps Aref say goodbye to the country he loves. As someone who knew nothing about Oman it is a fascinating journey to some of Aref's favourite places to see the sights of Oman. This is a book about family love, about love of your country and about how to say goodbye. ( )

In a few days, Aref and his mother will join his father who has flown ahead to Michigan where the family will live for three years while Aref's parents attend graduate school. While still in Oman, Aref's mother urges him to begin packing. But Aref isn't ready to leave the country and home he's known all his life, He worries about being the new kid in Michigan. While his mother handles final details his grandfather Sidi takes him on adventures. Aref and Sidi go to the beach, take a road trip to camp in the desert, go for a sail with a fisherman, and sleep on the roof. All the while Aref cherishes the familiar and the time spent with his grandfather. The book is a love letter to home and family ties, enlivened by Aref's sprightly personality. ( )