About This Book
Other Words for Home is a poignant free verse novel following Jude, a 12-year-old Syrian girl, as she and her pregnant mother flee the escalating civil war to live with relatives in Cincinnati, Ohio. The story beautifully captures Jude's journey of adjustment, from the initial culture shock and struggle with English to finding friendship, embracing her Muslim identity, and discovering a passion for theater. It explores themes of displacement, resilience, family bonds, and the courage it takes to build a new life while honoring one's heritage. Parents will appreciate its sensitive portrayal of the refugee experience and its hopeful message about belonging.
Concepts
Resilience & PerseveranceSelf-Confidence & IdentityLove & FamilyFriendship & LoyaltyEmpathy & KindnessFear & BraveryLoneliness & BelongingSadness & GriefCuriosity & WonderJustice & FairnessImmigrationMaking FriendsBeing DifferentCultural IdentityNew SiblingBullyingMovingFamily & SiblingsSchool LifeFriendship & Social
peril_danger
discrimination
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Jude's understanding of "home" change throughout the book?
2
What challenges does Jude face in Cincinnati, and how does she overcome them?
3
How do Jude's relationships with her family members, both in Syria and America, evolve?
4
What does the book teach us about empathy and understanding people from different backgrounds?
5
How does Jude find her voice and express her identity in a new culture?
External Reviews
Awards
1 award
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