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When Stars Are Scattered

Nonfiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Omar Mohamed, Victoria Jamieson

When Stars Are Scattered

Nonfiction | Graphic Novel/Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

264

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Dadaab, Kenya • 2000s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

GN530L

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Super Short Summary

When Stars Are Scattered follows Omar Mohamed and his brother Hassan, Somali refugees living in the Dadaab camp in Kenya. Omar narrates life in the camp, balancing chores, caring for Hassan, and attending school. Despite struggles, including Hassan's challenges and a tough resettlement process, Omar's perseverance leads to hope for a new future in America. The narrative includes mentions of violence, war, and death.

Informative

Emotional

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.7

32,392 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

When Stars Are Scattered by Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson has garnered widespread acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and vivid illustrations. Readers praise its empathetic portrayal of refugee life and resilience. However, some note a slower pacing in certain sections. Overall, it is celebrated for its emotional depth and educational value.

Who should read this

Who Should Read When Stars Are Scattered?

When Stars Are Scattered by Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson appeals to middle-grade readers interested in powerful true stories, refugee experiences, and personal resilience. Fans of works like Refugee by Alan Gratz or El Deafo by Cece Bell will find this graphic memoir equally compelling and educational.

4.7

32,392 ratings

94%

Loved it

5%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Character List

Omar Mohamed

The protagonist of the narrative, a young Somali refugee who grows up in Dadaab, a large refugee camp in Kenya, where he takes on the responsibility of caring for his younger brother, Hassan.

Omar's younger brother, who faces medical challenges and relies on Omar for care and companionship as they grow up together in the refugee camp.

An older woman in Dadaab who becomes the legal guardian of Omar and Hassan, providing them with a stable and supportive family structure.

Omar's friends who share an interest in education and aspirations for a better future, representing the strength and hopes of young refugee women.

Omar's best friend in the camp, who supports him through various challenges and shares dreams of a brighter future despite the hardships of refugee life.

Based on a real UN social worker, Susana encourages Omar's aspirations and assists him and Hassan during their time in Dadaab, contributing to their journey toward resettlement.

Book Details
Pages

264

Format

Graphic Novel/Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Dadaab, Kenya • 2000s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

Lexile Level

GN530L

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