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4.47 AVERAGE
4.47 AVERAGE
I’m a word girl. I love the language in this book, and what Jude learns from her move from Syria to America. My favorite quotes from this one are here:
https://twitter.com/JoyKirr/status/1161738427596988418
https://twitter.com/JoyKirr/status/1161738427596988418
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Moderate: Islamophobia
If I had to sum this book up in one word I would pick vulnerable. I love and appreciate the different perspectives presented in this novel. It is so important for diverse books to be represented in a class library and this would be a perfect contribution. This story takes on Islamophobia in such a powerful way through the personal and emotional narrative of Jude, a Syrian refugee. The point of view of Jude was perfect as we follow her on her journey and see how she grows and matures through the book. You see all the emotions Jude goes through and how she learns who she is regardless of where she is. This gives you a greater perspective of the world and the journeys other people take. The way it was written also makes it more accessible to a wide range of readers. This book was an immersive and eye opening experience that I am grateful for. This was such an incredible personal experience that I think is a great read for budding adolescence. I would highly recommend this book!
I wish all my students would read this book. This story is relatable, important, and necessary.
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I didn't want to finish this book. Period. It was such a good read, and the wording was so good. Would definitely recommend if you haven't read it yet.
Content Warnings
Minor: Racism, Violence, Pregnancy
Jasmine Warga has written a beautifully relatable story about Jude. Jude misses her familiar life in Syria, worries about her family and friends from whom she is separated, and finds her voice as a girl living in the United States. Read this book, from the first page to the end of the acknowledgements. "To every Arab and Arab American girl, I see you. You are worthy. Keep shining."
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
An amazing story of being true to yourself and your culture despite the ignorance of others. A good coming of age story in verse. Perhaps because of the main character's name, I kept thinking of The Beatles song "Hey Jude" and how the book's character made what could be a sad story if her life better by not being afraid.
Warga writes about big, complicated, important issues in a way that her middle grade audience can understand and puts it in a very human story.