
When Stars Are Scattered
فرمت کتاب
audiobook
تاریخ انتشار
2020
Lexile Score
530
Reading Level
1-3
نویسنده
Variousشابک
9780593162583
کتاب های مرتبط
- اطلاعات
- نقد و بررسی
- دیدگاه کاربران
نقد و بررسی

Starred review from March 2, 2020
Based on coauthor Mohamed’s childhood after fleeing Somalia on foot with his younger brother, this affecting graphic novel follows the brothers’ life in a Kenyan refugee camp. Though loving foster mother Fatuma cares for the boys, Mohamed watches out for his largely nonverbal younger brother, Hassan, who experiences occasional seizures, and is fearful of leaving him even to attend school. Mohamed longs to find their biological mother, and—like nearly everyone in the vast camp—waits for a life-changing, seemingly arbitrary UN interview that will determine whether the boys will be resettled, perhaps in the U.S. or Canada. Jamieson and Mohamed together craft a cohesive, winding story that balances daily life and boredom, past traumas, and unforeseen outcomes alongside camp denizens’ ingenuity and community. Expressive, memorable characters by Jamieson (Roller Girl) work and play against backdrops of round-topped UN tents, while colorist Iman Geddy’s deep purple skies drive home the title. The result of this team effort is a personal and poignant entry point for young readers trying to understand an unfair world. Back matter includes photographs of the brothers and authors’ notes. Ages 9–12.

Skillful soundscaping and a full cast heighten the atmosphere and emotion in this audiobook, inspired by the childhood of coauthor Omar Mohamed. The story follows young Omar, a Somali boy living in a Kenyan refugee camp, where he cares for his brother, studies hard, and tries to balance his hope of resettlement against grim reality. Narrator Faysal Ahmed is thoroughly sympathetic as Omar, his mellifluous rolled "r"s and gentle tones adding to the intimacy of the narration. The variously accented supporting cast include such notables as Robin Miles and Bahni Turpin, and their chorus of voices emphasizes the caring community that surrounds Omar. Ambient noises and sound effects--from boisterous classroom chatter to evening cricket song--further envelop listeners. Collectively, it's a moving and memorable listening experience. R.A.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine
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