5 stars
A heartfelt book recounting Omar Mohamed’s experiences growing up in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. The book goes through Mohamed’s daily life and long-term struggles including taking care of his brother, arguments with friends, trying to get an education in the camp, learning English, coping with food shortages, fighting for resettlement in America, and struggling with his own emotions as he comes of age and understands more about his surroundings.
Through the hardships and difficulties, there are also shining moments of kindness and hope. Strangers caring for his brother, those who support his education, his foster mother doing her best to provide for him and his brother with the few resources available. This story demonstrated the power of hard work, help from others, and a bit of luck.
Jamieson’s artwork helps bring Mohamed’s story to life, connecting readers to it through all the ups and downs. It makes those bright moments brighter and the hardships more real. Together, they create a valuable resource to educate, represent, and inspire readers to persevere and make change.
I loved this book. At times, it was hard to read. But through all the darkness, there was hope. A beautiful exploration of the fine line between giving up and acceptance with the mindset of making the most of things.
The backmatter includes an afterward detailing Mohamed’s journey after the story ends, notes from both of the authors detailing their experience putting together the book, as well as references to resources to aid refugees around the world and support new arrivals in America. It also includes photographs of the real people in the story and some follow-ups.
A powerful read promoting understanding, empathy, and making the most of a given situation.