Victoria Jamieson

Graphic novel about two brothers living in a refugee camp in Africa. Living in a refugee camp isn't easy. There's little to no resources, heartbreak, trauma, and hope is far away. This novel goes through Omar (the main character's) life and his journey battling the odds. Despite the circumstances, Omar goes to school, takes care of his family, and makes it to America along with his little brother Hassan.

I absolutely loved this book! It was so incredibly powerful and dealt with harder topics in a graphic novel setting. The story was so raw, beautiful and inspiring. If I were to teach an older grade, I would definitely use this book in the classroom. Due to the nature of the story, I would use this book in a middle school or high school classroom. It's a good conversation starter for a deeper discussion.… (more)

This book frustrated me. I have carried it around for two weeks because I don't know what to do with it. It is a very cute story, a graphic novel which kids love, same author as Roller Girl. The problem is that it is written on a third grade level, but it contains sexual references. It's very well written, but I know when students see the work "sex" they will freak! This is one of the challenges of having a library for 3rd -8th grade. Probably 5th-8th would be fine with it, but I am rarely at circulation desk to monitor what kids are checking out. If anyone else has read this, I would love to hear your thoughts.… (more)