45 pages • 1 hour read
The Turtle of Oman
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Oman • Contemporary
2014
Middle grade
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
The Turtle of Oman by Naomi Shihab Nye follows Aref Al-Amri in Muscat, Oman, as he prepares for a move to the United States. With guidance from his grandfather Sidi, Aref navigates the emotional challenges of leaving his home, learning to cherish memories and anticipate new adventures. He bids farewell to friends and treasures special moments with his grandfather, ultimately embracing the upcoming change.
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Melancholic
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
2,531 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Naomi Shihab Nye's The Turtle of Oman receives praise for its evocative prose and rich cultural setting, immersing readers in the beauty of Oman. The protagonist’s emotional journey of moving away resonates with both children and adults. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the plot thin. Despite this, the novel’s lyrical quality and heartfelt themes make it a rewarding read.
Who Should Read The Turtle of Oman?
A reader who would enjoy The Turtle of Oman by Naomi Shihab Nye is typically a middle-grader who appreciates multicultural themes, gentle storytelling, and evocative prose. Fans of Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai or Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will find this book equally compelling.
2,531 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
Oman • Contemporary
2014
Middle grade
8-12 years
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