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45 pages 1 hour read

Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Warren St. John

Outcasts United

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Clarkston, Georgia • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

980L

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Super Short Summary

Outcasts United by Warren St. John follows a season with the Fugees, a soccer team for refugee boys in Clarkston, Georgia, coached by Luma Mufleh. Luma, a Jordanian immigrant, forms the team amid community resistance and numerous challenges. The story intertwines personal narratives of refugee families with the history and societal tensions of Clarkston, highlighting the impact of organized sports and the systemic barriers faced by refugees. The book addresses incidents of police violence, gang dangers, and community divisions related to cultural integration.

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

8,709 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Outcasts United by Warren St. John has garnered praise for its compelling narrative and insightful examination of refugee experiences through the lens of a youth soccer team. Reviewers commend its empathetic portrayal and inspirational themes. Criticisms include occasional narrative disorganization and lack of deeper character focus. Overall, it is highly recommended for its engaging storytelling and social relevance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Outcasts United?

Readers passionate about social justice, community resilience, and the power of sports will find Outcasts United by Warren St. John captivating. Comparable to those who enjoyed The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown and The Blind Side by Michael Lewis, it appeals to those who appreciate heartwarming, real-life stories of overcoming adversity.

4.1

8,709 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Warren St. John

An American author and journalist known for his work on long-form sports and culture features for The New York Times and for his role in uncovering the JT LeRoy literary hoax. He authored two books that explore sports culture and American society, including Outcasts United.

The founder and coach of the Fugees, a soccer team for refugee children, who is dedicated to supporting the players and their families while employing a strict coaching style. Her relationships with the team members extend beyond the traditional coach-player dynamic.

The mayor of Clarkston, Georgia, depicted as the primary antagonist due to his opposition to refugee soccer teams and alleged abuse of power. His character reflects systemic obstacles faced by refugees in the community.

A Liberian refugee and single mother of Fugees players Jeremiah and Mandela, who works a demanding job to support her family. Her personal history is highlighted as representative of the struggles and sacrifices of refugee parents.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Clarkston, Georgia • 2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

980L

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