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4.23 AVERAGE
4.23 AVERAGE
This is a beautifully written story and a thought-provoking perspective. I loved reading it.
“One doesn’t forego sleeping because of the possibility of nightmares.”
Powerful novel in verse and my current fifth grade read aloud
A lovely, sad, inspiring book. Written in verse, it is accessible to reluctant readers who can be intimidated by too many words on a page but still rich in language and with deep content. A great classroom read - lots of fodder for discussion about friendship, hope, fitting in, and the American immigration experience.
Thanks for making me cry. This is told in free verse, which I am excited for more great free verse books to share with my middle school students. Kek has lost most of his family after living in war torn Sudan, and had moved to Minnesota with his aunt and cousin. He must try to learn the language and customs of a new place, while mourning the loss of his family and country. There are some lovely people who help him along the way. His hope is catching. A great read that will hopefully provide empathy to those who read it. No swears, very little violence. 5th grade and up.
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
tense
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:
Complicated
A beautiful book, this has been on my want to read for a while so I’m glad I have finally got to it! 4.75/5 Read for the May #Buzzwordathon - Home/House in the title
Katherine Applegate writes, "In Kek's story I hope readers will see the neighbor child with a strange accent, the new kid in class from some faraway land, the child in odd clothes who doesn't belong, ... I hope they see themselves"
She certainly succeeded.
In my teaching career I worked with different children from different places. It wasn't till I spent time immersed in a different culture and language that I began to understand what it might be like for them. This books unveils the trauma and culture shock new immigrants deal with.
She certainly succeeded.
In my teaching career I worked with different children from different places. It wasn't till I spent time immersed in a different culture and language that I began to understand what it might be like for them. This books unveils the trauma and culture shock new immigrants deal with.
So good. The story of a refugee immigrant to the U.S. told through his eyes and voice, memorable lines and sharp observations abound.
Katherine Applegate has quickly become my new favorite author. From Wishtree to Crenshaw to Home of the Brave... all such diverse and amazing books!
I read this book in one sitting because I truly could not put it down. Applegate's use of free verse along with an incredible storyline of a young and brave refugee made for an amazing book. This is definitely one of my new favorites! Adults and kids alike will enjoy this one.
I read this book in one sitting because I truly could not put it down. Applegate's use of free verse along with an incredible storyline of a young and brave refugee made for an amazing book. This is definitely one of my new favorites! Adults and kids alike will enjoy this one.
I listened to this on audio, and I was crying as I was driving. It's really good. I gave it to Andy to read after. Tt's nominated for a Maine Student Book award, and while I wish it would win, I think that Diary of a Wimpy Kid is going to end up the champion. I'm not sure I will ever look at cows the same way again.