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Kareem Between
This heartfelt coming-of-age novel in verse tells the powerful story of a seventh-grade Syrian American boy and his struggles, big and small, as he navigates middle school.
"As an Arab-American and a football fan, this book spoke directly to me. It's the exact type of book I would've loved, and needed, as a kid. A perfect mix of a fun and enjoyable read, while being an important book, too." — Jasmine Warga, New York Times bestselling author of and Newbery Honor recipient for Other Words for Home
Seventh grade begins and Kareem’s fall should be off to a great start. But he’s already fumbled it.
His best friend moved away, he bungled his tryout for the football team, and because of his heritage, he was voluntold to show the new kid—a Syrian refugee with a thick and embarrassing accent—around school. Just when Kareem thinks his middle school life has imploded, the hot-shot QB promises to get Kareem another tryout for the squad. There’s a to secure that chance, Kareem must do something he knows is wrong.
Then like a surprise blitz, Kareem’s mom returns to Syria to bring her aging parents out of a war zone and to the United States. But a new executive order prevents her from coming home. If Kareem could throw a penalty flag on the fouls of his school and home life, it would be for Unnecessary Roughness.
Kareem is stuck between. Between countries. Between friends, between football, between parents—and between right and wrong. It’s up to him to step up, find his confidence, and navigate the beauty and hope found somewhere in the middle.
"As an Arab-American and a football fan, this book spoke directly to me. It's the exact type of book I would've loved, and needed, as a kid. A perfect mix of a fun and enjoyable read, while being an important book, too." — Jasmine Warga, New York Times bestselling author of and Newbery Honor recipient for Other Words for Home
Seventh grade begins and Kareem’s fall should be off to a great start. But he’s already fumbled it.
His best friend moved away, he bungled his tryout for the football team, and because of his heritage, he was voluntold to show the new kid—a Syrian refugee with a thick and embarrassing accent—around school. Just when Kareem thinks his middle school life has imploded, the hot-shot QB promises to get Kareem another tryout for the squad. There’s a to secure that chance, Kareem must do something he knows is wrong.
Then like a surprise blitz, Kareem’s mom returns to Syria to bring her aging parents out of a war zone and to the United States. But a new executive order prevents her from coming home. If Kareem could throw a penalty flag on the fouls of his school and home life, it would be for Unnecessary Roughness.
Kareem is stuck between. Between countries. Between friends, between football, between parents—and between right and wrong. It’s up to him to step up, find his confidence, and navigate the beauty and hope found somewhere in the middle.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2024
72 people are currently reading
5010 people want to read
About the author
Shifa Saltagi Safadi
9 books115 followersShifa Saltagi Safadi was born in Syria and immigrated to the US with her parents when she was a young girl. She is a bilingual Arabic/English speaker, and is very familiar with the challenges of learning English and navigating two languages.
As a mom to four Arab American children and a former English teacher to Middle School students, (and an author!) she now spends her time helping kids develop a love of reading and writing too.
You can learn more about her books on her website shifasafadi.com
As a mom to four Arab American children and a former English teacher to Middle School students, (and an author!) she now spends her time helping kids develop a love of reading and writing too.
You can learn more about her books on her website shifasafadi.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
July 24, 2024
Salaam and a warm hello to readers! This is my debut MG book, a book of my heart, years of work and duaas, prayers and love, and Alhamdulilah I am so honored to share it with the world.
This book was written about how I felt after the Muslim ban of 2017, and about how it feels to be in between Syrian and American. It was inspired by my own tweens love of the Bears and NFL football, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to young people to use activism to stand up for what they believe in and ALWAYS do the right thing!
I hope you all love Kareem as much as I do.
Wama Tawfiki ila Billah- thankful for the blessings of being published and excited for what is to come! Please preorder🥰❤️
This book was written about how I felt after the Muslim ban of 2017, and about how it feels to be in between Syrian and American. It was inspired by my own tweens love of the Bears and NFL football, and I hope it serves as an inspiration to young people to use activism to stand up for what they believe in and ALWAYS do the right thing!
I hope you all love Kareem as much as I do.
Wama Tawfiki ila Billah- thankful for the blessings of being published and excited for what is to come! Please preorder🥰❤️
July 16, 2025
CW: Islamophobia, racism, bullying, grief, death of family member.
What Worked: I've been meaning to pick this up especially after it received the National Book Award. This was my first book by Safadi, but it definitely won't be my last. Kareem Between is a beautiful and poetic narrative of young Kareem who loves football and aspires to make the team, but faces quite a bit of conflict at school and at home. This book is a great example of the varied experiences of immigrants, what it means to be comfortable in one's own skin, and how the US Muslim ban impacted families and communities across the nation. Safadi does a beautiful job illustrating the internal conflict experienced by Kareem. There is a need to be a part of American culture; however, there is also a need to connect with his Syrian background. Kareem has to figure out what that means to him especially in relationship to his family. I appreciated that Safadi attempted to tie in football terminology into every single chapter. The explanations and connections to the story itself will really resonate with readers especially those who are sports fans. Kareem's character development as well as the development of the side characters was done well.
What Didn't Work: I appreciated the writing style of the book and moments when Safadi used some cultural influences; however, there were some moments where the writing felt a little clunky. I also think it could have used fewer references to other middle grade titles. I understand the intention behind it; however, it was a little jarring.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm looking forward to reading more by Safadi.
What Worked: I've been meaning to pick this up especially after it received the National Book Award. This was my first book by Safadi, but it definitely won't be my last. Kareem Between is a beautiful and poetic narrative of young Kareem who loves football and aspires to make the team, but faces quite a bit of conflict at school and at home. This book is a great example of the varied experiences of immigrants, what it means to be comfortable in one's own skin, and how the US Muslim ban impacted families and communities across the nation. Safadi does a beautiful job illustrating the internal conflict experienced by Kareem. There is a need to be a part of American culture; however, there is also a need to connect with his Syrian background. Kareem has to figure out what that means to him especially in relationship to his family. I appreciated that Safadi attempted to tie in football terminology into every single chapter. The explanations and connections to the story itself will really resonate with readers especially those who are sports fans. Kareem's character development as well as the development of the side characters was done well.
What Didn't Work: I appreciated the writing style of the book and moments when Safadi used some cultural influences; however, there were some moments where the writing felt a little clunky. I also think it could have used fewer references to other middle grade titles. I understand the intention behind it; however, it was a little jarring.
Overall, this was a great read and I'm looking forward to reading more by Safadi.
April 12, 2024
Receiving the ARC for this book was extra-special to me - because it was written by my incredibly talented and truly amazing friend, @muslimmommyblog! (And I'd had the honor of reading one of her earliest drafts!)
But, bestie book friends or not, I will *always* be a scrupulously honest book reviewer. And so, I'm thrilled to report that I *loved* this book!
We all know that there's a dearth of Muslim middle grade books for boys, and "Kareem Between" is such a wonderful book to meet the need.
Kareem Moussa is a 7th grade Syrian American, a boy who loves football and literature, who just wants to make the team and fit in... but who finds himself suddenly juggling everything from tryouts to a bully, to the terrifying Muslim ban that strands his mother in Syria as she tries to bring over her sick father. Now, Kareem has to learn what it means to do what's right even when it's harder than ever, to stand up not just for himself, but for so many others.
"Kareem Between" is written in verse, cleverly - and more importantly, beautiful. Although the football references went way over my head, I cheered for Kareem throughout, felt my heart jump in my throat when his Mama went missing, & was deeply moved by the many Islamic reminders threaded seamlessly throughout. Kareem's story is one of faith, football, and fighting for justice - a story that so many Muslim boys need to read, to see themselves & know that they too can stand strong.
Truly, this is such a unique and valuable book to have on school and home bookshelves. It's a story with meaning & with heart - & an important encapsulation of a terrifying time for Muslim Americans, with very real consequences.
"Kareem Between" comes out in September, so pre-order immediately!!!!!!
5/5 🌟
#Bookstagram #Muslimboookstagram #MyMuslimShelfSpace #OwnVoice #WeNeedDiverseBooks #diversebooks #middlegrade #Muslimmiddlegrade #Muslimfiction #Muslimrepresentation #authenticrepresentation #bookreview #books #kidlit #Muslimkidlit #preorder #Muslimbooks #fiction #novelsinverse
But, bestie book friends or not, I will *always* be a scrupulously honest book reviewer. And so, I'm thrilled to report that I *loved* this book!
We all know that there's a dearth of Muslim middle grade books for boys, and "Kareem Between" is such a wonderful book to meet the need.
Kareem Moussa is a 7th grade Syrian American, a boy who loves football and literature, who just wants to make the team and fit in... but who finds himself suddenly juggling everything from tryouts to a bully, to the terrifying Muslim ban that strands his mother in Syria as she tries to bring over her sick father. Now, Kareem has to learn what it means to do what's right even when it's harder than ever, to stand up not just for himself, but for so many others.
"Kareem Between" is written in verse, cleverly - and more importantly, beautiful. Although the football references went way over my head, I cheered for Kareem throughout, felt my heart jump in my throat when his Mama went missing, & was deeply moved by the many Islamic reminders threaded seamlessly throughout. Kareem's story is one of faith, football, and fighting for justice - a story that so many Muslim boys need to read, to see themselves & know that they too can stand strong.
Truly, this is such a unique and valuable book to have on school and home bookshelves. It's a story with meaning & with heart - & an important encapsulation of a terrifying time for Muslim Americans, with very real consequences.
"Kareem Between" comes out in September, so pre-order immediately!!!!!!
5/5 🌟
#Bookstagram #Muslimboookstagram #MyMuslimShelfSpace #OwnVoice #WeNeedDiverseBooks #diversebooks #middlegrade #Muslimmiddlegrade #Muslimfiction #Muslimrepresentation #authenticrepresentation #bookreview #books #kidlit #Muslimkidlit #preorder #Muslimbooks #fiction #novelsinverse
June 9, 2024
“This is a country of free speech. But sometimes, words spoken freely hurt.”
🏈
Kareem’s best friend moved away so he thought he would try out for the football team to make new friends. When he doesn’t make the team, the coach’s son, Austin, makes him a deal. If Kareem does his homework for him, he’ll make sure he gets on for spring football. Kareem doesn’t feel good about this, but he’s desperate for a friend and a place to belong. Around the same time a new Syrian family moves into town, but Kareem doesn’t want to be friendly with their son at school for fear of being seen as different. His mom also decides to go to Syria to bring her ailing father and mother back with her, but when the 2017 Muslim Ban goes into effect, they are stuck without a way back to the U.S. Kareem must learn what’s important and to fight for what’s dear to him.
🇸🇾
Can I give a book 10 stars? If I could, I would give @muslimmommyblog MG novel in verse all the ⭐️ I could. This title is timely and shows the effect that 45’s racist comments, laws and executive orders had on so many people in the United States. The football analogy was spot on and even though I cried throughout this read, I will read it again and again to remind myself how important our vote and voice are moving forward, particularly in November. Maybe when some readers put a face, a name, a family to this issue, they will change how they look at immigration issues. I’ll be purchasing this for my middle school library the day it releases September 10.
CW: Islamophobia, racism, bullying, death of a grandparent, grief, xenophobia, hospitalization, anxiety, physical altercation
🏈
Kareem’s best friend moved away so he thought he would try out for the football team to make new friends. When he doesn’t make the team, the coach’s son, Austin, makes him a deal. If Kareem does his homework for him, he’ll make sure he gets on for spring football. Kareem doesn’t feel good about this, but he’s desperate for a friend and a place to belong. Around the same time a new Syrian family moves into town, but Kareem doesn’t want to be friendly with their son at school for fear of being seen as different. His mom also decides to go to Syria to bring her ailing father and mother back with her, but when the 2017 Muslim Ban goes into effect, they are stuck without a way back to the U.S. Kareem must learn what’s important and to fight for what’s dear to him.
🇸🇾
Can I give a book 10 stars? If I could, I would give @muslimmommyblog MG novel in verse all the ⭐️ I could. This title is timely and shows the effect that 45’s racist comments, laws and executive orders had on so many people in the United States. The football analogy was spot on and even though I cried throughout this read, I will read it again and again to remind myself how important our vote and voice are moving forward, particularly in November. Maybe when some readers put a face, a name, a family to this issue, they will change how they look at immigration issues. I’ll be purchasing this for my middle school library the day it releases September 10.
CW: Islamophobia, racism, bullying, death of a grandparent, grief, xenophobia, hospitalization, anxiety, physical altercation
November 27, 2024
Ok this was good and yeah definitely deserved the National Book Award so my bad for being upset it won over another book I loved this year! I really enjoyed how the author was able to mash football, identity, politics, and actual middle grades lit references into one book. So cool!
January 9, 2025
I liked that this book showed a child who was strong in his faith and appreciated the portrayal of the Muslim ban and the understanding it brought to the situation. However, I found the writing weak and the machinations of verse stilted and manipulative rather than smooth. The Crossover was name-checked in this book but this one couldn’t hold a candle to it. Many of the characters were one-dimensional stereotyped and the plotting predictable.
2.5
52 Book Club25: 17) Told in verse
2.5
52 Book Club25: 17) Told in verse
July 22, 2024
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.
I was drawn to this because I love a novel in verse, but I didn’t realize it was set during the “Muslim Ban” and how that would impact the story. This is a great coming of age story where Kareem, a young Syrian-American dreams of being part of the NFL and the honor of having his name, an Arabic, Syrian name on the back of American football jersey. But when his best friend moves away, he thinks he has to bend his morals in order to be friends with Austin in order to be part of the school’s football team next season. Along the way he learns how to stand up for his friends and himself, and finds his voice in protesting the travel bans and what they mean not only for his own family, but the families of his friends and community. This was a super emotional story that I really enjoyed.
I was drawn to this because I love a novel in verse, but I didn’t realize it was set during the “Muslim Ban” and how that would impact the story. This is a great coming of age story where Kareem, a young Syrian-American dreams of being part of the NFL and the honor of having his name, an Arabic, Syrian name on the back of American football jersey. But when his best friend moves away, he thinks he has to bend his morals in order to be friends with Austin in order to be part of the school’s football team next season. Along the way he learns how to stand up for his friends and himself, and finds his voice in protesting the travel bans and what they mean not only for his own family, but the families of his friends and community. This was a super emotional story that I really enjoyed.
November 21, 2024
10/30/24 Kareem wants to play football, but can a Syrian American boy be good enough for the team? Perhaps, befriending the coach's son will make it easier. Then Fadi, another Syrian moves in and Kareem is asked to help him adjust to school and life in the United States. Will befriending Fadi help or hurt his chances of making the team? Which means more to Kareem, being American enough to make the team or being Syrian enough for Fadi?
Set at the end of 2016 and early 2017, the plot thickens when Kareem's Mom returns to Syria to bring her father back to the United States. Kareem's mother isn't able to return. Is there anything Kareem can do to help her return? He quickly figures out if family or football is more important to him.
Football fans and those feeling stuck between two cultures will appreciate this novel-in-verse for tweens and young teens. *A 2024 National Book Award nominee for Young People's Literature.
*11/20/24 Now the 2024 National Book Awards winner for Young People's Literature!
Set at the end of 2016 and early 2017, the plot thickens when Kareem's Mom returns to Syria to bring her father back to the United States. Kareem's mother isn't able to return. Is there anything Kareem can do to help her return? He quickly figures out if family or football is more important to him.
Football fans and those feeling stuck between two cultures will appreciate this novel-in-verse for tweens and young teens. *A 2024 National Book Award nominee for Young People's Literature.
*11/20/24 Now the 2024 National Book Awards winner for Young People's Literature!
December 17, 2024
Absolutely deserving of National Book Award, and I'm so hoping for a Newbery too? Such a compelling story and voice ~ identity, religion sports, middle school, all wrapped up in incredibly beautiful and accessible free verse.
Source: school library hardcover
Source: school library hardcover
December 24, 2024
This was a moving. middle grade novel in verse about a football loving Syrian American boy struggling to deal with all the 'fouls' the world keeps throwing at him. From not making it onto the school Football team to having his mom get stuck in Syria after the Muslim bans of 2016. Heartfelt and highly recommended for fans of Danny Ramadan's Salma books. This #ownvoices story does an amazing job describing how hard it can be for children of immigrants to fit in and feel a sense of belonging, especially with the rise of anti-Muslim feelings and actions rampant around the world, but especially in America.
November 27, 2024
2024 National Book Award winner! A football-loving, Syrian American Muslim boy must find the courage to confront feelings of being stuck in between the worlds of home, school, and wider society. This verse novel is set during the 2016-17 school year, amid the build-up to then–President Donald Trump’s executive order affecting travel from seven Muslim-majority countries, including Syria.
May 18, 2025
A novel in verse about young Kareem; a Syrian-American kid who is obsessed with football. Kareem wants so badly to fit in at school; but it seems like it’s never going to happen. When his Mother is called away to Syria to help care for his grandfather, Kareem is hopeful she will be home soon. But the Muslim ban is put into motion; and Kareem’s family is in upheaval.
A fantastic story about family, friends and belonging. I really enjoyed this one.
A fantastic story about family, friends and belonging. I really enjoyed this one.
January 4, 2025
So glad I finally read this stellar MG book! Verse novel about a football obsessed Syrian American Muslim boy who is facing conflict at school and home. The verse is gorgeous!!
October 9, 2024
4.5 stars. This middle grade book was a wonderful coming of age story told through the structure of four quarters and various football penalties and plays. The story is filled with finding one's own place and belonging in the world as well as addressing the larger issues of the Muslim ban during Trump's presidency and what it means to be an American.
September 21, 2025
Twelve-year-old Kareem Moussa feels caught between two identities, his Syrian heritage and his American upbringing. He wants to make the school football team, but he doesn’t want to compromise his values by cheating for others. He worries about his mother trapped in Syria after Trump’s unjust “Muslim Ban” prevents her from returning home with his ailing grandfather. He also feels remorse for his antics in deceiving his father and not immediately standing up when his friends are bullied.
As Kareem grapples with hardships, Safadi shows his conscience developing before his own eyes. Through the growth and activism of Kareem and the faith and generosity of his family, the narrative offers inspiration and empowerment. Safadi confronts the racism and hypocrisy of the horrific “Muslim Ban” and she gives us a young man in Kareem to admire as he learns to fight injustice and ensure no one is treated unfairly.
Composed as a novel in rapidly paced poetic verse, Kareem Between generates tension and heartfelt emotion. Safadi not only addresses important challenges Kareem must face, but she also highlights Kareem’s love of football and his embrace of the Chicago Bears, especially the inspiration he gains from the iconic 1985 Super Bowl team led by the incomparable Walter “Sweetness” Payton. Kareem’s resilience and good heart guide him to reject wrongs as he learns vital lessons that pave the way for personal and societal progress.
As Kareem grapples with hardships, Safadi shows his conscience developing before his own eyes. Through the growth and activism of Kareem and the faith and generosity of his family, the narrative offers inspiration and empowerment. Safadi confronts the racism and hypocrisy of the horrific “Muslim Ban” and she gives us a young man in Kareem to admire as he learns to fight injustice and ensure no one is treated unfairly.
Composed as a novel in rapidly paced poetic verse, Kareem Between generates tension and heartfelt emotion. Safadi not only addresses important challenges Kareem must face, but she also highlights Kareem’s love of football and his embrace of the Chicago Bears, especially the inspiration he gains from the iconic 1985 Super Bowl team led by the incomparable Walter “Sweetness” Payton. Kareem’s resilience and good heart guide him to reject wrongs as he learns vital lessons that pave the way for personal and societal progress.
April 20, 2024
I’m so happy to have received a NetGalley e-ARC of KAREEM BETWEEN, because this MG verse novel is so beautiful and so important. I only carefully add to my list of “Books Literally Every Human Being Needs to Read At Least Once in Their Lifetime”…I would add KAREEM, no hesitation. A story rooted in activism, community, family, football, and Syrian-American pride, KAREEM BETWEEN allows for so many emotions to be felt, necessary history and current events to be learned, and one strong protagonist to shine. I am so excited for Safadi to bring out more poetic stories, as I know the world truly needs them.
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September 17, 2024This sweet book is out today! It takes place during the 2017 Muslim Ban & features:
🏈 a Syrian American MC as well as Syrian refugees
🏈 football terminology that went over my head but I'm sure sporty kids will appreciate 😅
🏈 an MC who prays regularly & values his faith (I don't see that often in MG)
🏈 the struggle of making friends & fitting in
🏈 ways in which kids can be activists too
🏈 a very personal author's note at the end 💙
KAREEM BETWEEN is perfect for fans of Cisneros' Efrén Divided (I'd love love love to see students comparing the two!) and ALSO I truly believe Shifa should get sponsored by the Chicago Bears or something because it is now the only football team I will ever remember 🤣.
Middle school teachers & librarians - get this one for your schools! Especially if you serve Arab students... There really aren't a lot of middle grades in which they're the main characters 💝.
🏈 a Syrian American MC as well as Syrian refugees
🏈 football terminology that went over my head but I'm sure sporty kids will appreciate 😅
🏈 an MC who prays regularly & values his faith (I don't see that often in MG)
🏈 the struggle of making friends & fitting in
🏈 ways in which kids can be activists too
🏈 a very personal author's note at the end 💙
KAREEM BETWEEN is perfect for fans of Cisneros' Efrén Divided (I'd love love love to see students comparing the two!) and ALSO I truly believe Shifa should get sponsored by the Chicago Bears or something because it is now the only football team I will ever remember 🤣.
Middle school teachers & librarians - get this one for your schools! Especially if you serve Arab students... There really aren't a lot of middle grades in which they're the main characters 💝.
January 3, 2025
Starts out as a wonderful book. I love the story of trying to fit in and completely botching it. I love the side stories.
But then the author pretty much goes on a Trump rant. And repeats all the lies the media told us during his 1st presidency. Here are some facts:
Executive Order 13769 was about the ability to trust the government and vet refugees. It included the following countries:
Iran: The government of Iran has openly declared their desire to destroy the United States, and they openly fund terrorist organizations across the Middle East.
Libya: At the time, Libya was in a civil war. This from Wikipedia: Following the defeat of loyalist forces, Libya was torn among numerous rival, armed militias affiliated with distinct regions, cities and tribes, while the central government had been weak and unable to effectively exert its authority over the country.
Somalia: The same as Libya, except worse. And they had pirates.
Sudan: Not nearly as bad as Libya or Somalia, but they were getting over a lost civil war, and their leader was horribly corrupt and untrustworthy.
Syria: Much like Libya, though worse (yet not as bad as Somalia): The government was completely unable and unwilling to vet anyone, and many of the top parties in the government, as well as many groups opposing it in civil war, were designated terrorist organizations.
Yemen: Much of Yemen was controlled by terrorists, including most of the populated areas. The officially recognized government is mostly relegated to the desert.
Iraq was also included until it was dropped following sharp criticism from the Iraqi government and promises of improved vetting of Iraqi citizens in collaboration with the Iraqi government.
It did not include the following countries, each of which has more Muslims than any of the included countries, and each of which demonstrated the ability and willingness to vet people leaving the country:
Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt, and Turkey.
Also, the executive order was temporary. It expressly said 90 days.
Anyway, the book was very good until it became just a bunch of Trump bashing. So pathetic of the author.
But then the author pretty much goes on a Trump rant. And repeats all the lies the media told us during his 1st presidency. Here are some facts:
Executive Order 13769 was about the ability to trust the government and vet refugees. It included the following countries:
Iran: The government of Iran has openly declared their desire to destroy the United States, and they openly fund terrorist organizations across the Middle East.
Libya: At the time, Libya was in a civil war. This from Wikipedia: Following the defeat of loyalist forces, Libya was torn among numerous rival, armed militias affiliated with distinct regions, cities and tribes, while the central government had been weak and unable to effectively exert its authority over the country.
Somalia: The same as Libya, except worse. And they had pirates.
Sudan: Not nearly as bad as Libya or Somalia, but they were getting over a lost civil war, and their leader was horribly corrupt and untrustworthy.
Syria: Much like Libya, though worse (yet not as bad as Somalia): The government was completely unable and unwilling to vet anyone, and many of the top parties in the government, as well as many groups opposing it in civil war, were designated terrorist organizations.
Yemen: Much of Yemen was controlled by terrorists, including most of the populated areas. The officially recognized government is mostly relegated to the desert.
Iraq was also included until it was dropped following sharp criticism from the Iraqi government and promises of improved vetting of Iraqi citizens in collaboration with the Iraqi government.
It did not include the following countries, each of which has more Muslims than any of the included countries, and each of which demonstrated the ability and willingness to vet people leaving the country:
Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Egypt, and Turkey.
Also, the executive order was temporary. It expressly said 90 days.
Anyway, the book was very good until it became just a bunch of Trump bashing. So pathetic of the author.
July 14, 2025
Kareem Between is a book in verse, told from the perspective of middle-schooler, Kareem, a football-loving Syrian-American who wants to make the football team, be the quarterback, and overall just fit in. He is Muslim, an important piece of his identity as he observes praying daily and is active at their local mosque and in Arabic school on Sundays. His grandparents are still in Syria, and during the story, his mom goes back to get her sick parents just as the Muslim travel bans in 2017 go into effect. At home, he is dealing with bullies, finding his voice, being a good brother and son and friend, and dealing with the consequences of his mistakes… not to mention the constant worry about if and when his mother will make it back safely.
I would love to add this one to my 6th grade class library and even teach it as a class novel or in a novel study of other books in verse. Kareem is relatable and imperfect, one of the major themes being learning that our actions have consequences and that it is not always easy or straightforward to set things right when we have made mistakes. There are lots of football metaphors and facts sprinkled throughout, and the shape and form of the verse does a lot - I would definitely recommend the print text over the audiobook for this reason. There are some tropes that we see a lot in middle grades stories - the “there is more to the bully than we realize” trope - Kareem learns to forgive as he matures and acquires self knowledge. This is likely me being cynical, but there is also, in my opinion, an oversimplification of activism, that “protesting can fix all our social ills” myth that is a hard pill to swallow looking at events unfolding right now in our country ten years after the story takes place. Still, it's a worthy text for the representation, poetic form, great story, and if it gets kids motivated to want to use their voices and participate more loudly in our quite broken political system, then that can’t hurt either, as long as they understand they can’t expect one protest to transform unfair policies like it seems to do in these types of stories. Activism requires stamina and takes a long time to impact change and is not a quick fix. These could be conversations had alongside reading to enhance and extend on the story.
I would love to add this one to my 6th grade class library and even teach it as a class novel or in a novel study of other books in verse. Kareem is relatable and imperfect, one of the major themes being learning that our actions have consequences and that it is not always easy or straightforward to set things right when we have made mistakes. There are lots of football metaphors and facts sprinkled throughout, and the shape and form of the verse does a lot - I would definitely recommend the print text over the audiobook for this reason. There are some tropes that we see a lot in middle grades stories - the “there is more to the bully than we realize” trope - Kareem learns to forgive as he matures and acquires self knowledge. This is likely me being cynical, but there is also, in my opinion, an oversimplification of activism, that “protesting can fix all our social ills” myth that is a hard pill to swallow looking at events unfolding right now in our country ten years after the story takes place. Still, it's a worthy text for the representation, poetic form, great story, and if it gets kids motivated to want to use their voices and participate more loudly in our quite broken political system, then that can’t hurt either, as long as they understand they can’t expect one protest to transform unfair policies like it seems to do in these types of stories. Activism requires stamina and takes a long time to impact change and is not a quick fix. These could be conversations had alongside reading to enhance and extend on the story.
January 31, 2025
This one was a surprise. I've been seeking out novels in verse since I discovered them by happy accident last year. This one was recommended to me as a novel in verse that's fun because it uses football terms and compares things to football...oh and it's really good. Ok...why not?
It IS those things, but it's so much more. A story about a boy whose best friend moves away. He's Syrian American and is scared that being different will make him a target...that he will get made fun of. He has a dream to be a football star. He makes a LOT of bad choices in his pursuit of this dream. Honestly...he's kind of unlikable but also SO relatable. He's just a kid. And yes...football terms and metaphors GALORE.
So I was thinking as I went through the first half that this was good...probably a 4 star read. And then...AND THEN...about half way through, I read something that literally stops me in my tracks. I re-read it several times over and then took a picture and HAD to share it because it was just...so important and special and relevant. And where the story goes from this point on was so special. I was literally in tears reading this at school drop off.
This was so good and it caught me by surprise. I don't think this would have hit so hard a month ago...but right now...in this moment at the end of January 2025...this feels like a book everyone should read. Sometimes books just come to you at the exact moment you need them. This book came to me at the perfect time.
It IS those things, but it's so much more. A story about a boy whose best friend moves away. He's Syrian American and is scared that being different will make him a target...that he will get made fun of. He has a dream to be a football star. He makes a LOT of bad choices in his pursuit of this dream. Honestly...he's kind of unlikable but also SO relatable. He's just a kid. And yes...football terms and metaphors GALORE.
So I was thinking as I went through the first half that this was good...probably a 4 star read. And then...AND THEN...about half way through, I read something that literally stops me in my tracks. I re-read it several times over and then took a picture and HAD to share it because it was just...so important and special and relevant. And where the story goes from this point on was so special. I was literally in tears reading this at school drop off.
This was so good and it caught me by surprise. I don't think this would have hit so hard a month ago...but right now...in this moment at the end of January 2025...this feels like a book everyone should read. Sometimes books just come to you at the exact moment you need them. This book came to me at the perfect time.
September 15, 2024
Seventh grade is off to a rocky start for Kareem—his best friend is gone, his football tryout flopped, and he's reluctantly tasked with helping a new Syrian refugee student. But when an unexpected chance to redeem himself arises, Kareem must navigate a tough choice while his mom faces a crisis back in Syria, testing his resolve and pushing him to find his own path amid the chaos.
*light spoilers below, please review any content warnings prior to reading*
This book had me in my feelings from the very beginning. I immediately felt drawn to Kareem and was rooting for him. This is a gorgeous novel in verse, and the way the words jump off the pages is incredible. There are certain pages and passages that embody the entire page, bring visuals to the forefront, and make you feel every single emotion. I will definitely revisit this one as an audiobook because I am sure the audio is spectacular.
Kareem’s inner turmoil, his thoughts and feelings, him trying to understand the world around him, realizing what is important, and standing up for himself and his friends and family had me wiping tears from my cheeks by the end.
Friends, when he sees his mother again, I wept.
I highlighted several passages that meant a lot to me. Such a beautiful story. Please do not miss the author’s note. 💜
*light spoilers below, please review any content warnings prior to reading*
This book had me in my feelings from the very beginning. I immediately felt drawn to Kareem and was rooting for him. This is a gorgeous novel in verse, and the way the words jump off the pages is incredible. There are certain pages and passages that embody the entire page, bring visuals to the forefront, and make you feel every single emotion. I will definitely revisit this one as an audiobook because I am sure the audio is spectacular.
Kareem’s inner turmoil, his thoughts and feelings, him trying to understand the world around him, realizing what is important, and standing up for himself and his friends and family had me wiping tears from my cheeks by the end.
Friends, when he sees his mother again, I wept.
I highlighted several passages that meant a lot to me. Such a beautiful story. Please do not miss the author’s note. 💜
October 7, 2024
I listened to this audiobook via Libby after it was named a finalist for the National Book Award in Young People’s Literature. Initially, I cringed at re-experiencing all the middle grade awkwardness of social hierarchy, bullies, lying to parents, and making bad self-centered choices. Syrian American Kareem is struggling to fit in and yearning to make the football team when he’s asked to help a newly arrived Syrian boy assimilate. Torn between trying to befriend the brutish football coach’s son and fulfill familial obligations, Kareem makes missteps but then real world events upstage the narrative. Trump is in office and Syrians are banned from entering the US, leaving his mother and ailing grandparents stranded across an ocean. This plot line is the big gut punch of the story that is so relevant and important… a testament to a lived moment in time and US History. I read this brief but powerful and multifaceted story in one sitting and will be recommending it to others.
February 18, 2025
Don’t let the cover fool you - this is a sweet coming of age story tackling serious themes.
Kareem, a Syrian American middle schooler is an avid Chicago Bears fan and dreams of being on the football team. Is his dream worth completing homework for the coach’s son and shunning another Syrian student?
Kareem’s mom travels to Syria to help her ailing father but is prevented from returning home based on the 2017 Muslim ban. Football is no longer so important as Kareem directs his energy in finding ways to bring attention and justice to the issue.
Written entirely in verse, the word placement helps to illustrate the story. Football definitions are integrated perfectly in the story. (I certainly learned a few new terms.)
“Syrian American, a between place that is both a part of two identities and a blended identity all it’s own.”
Kareem, a Syrian American middle schooler is an avid Chicago Bears fan and dreams of being on the football team. Is his dream worth completing homework for the coach’s son and shunning another Syrian student?
Kareem’s mom travels to Syria to help her ailing father but is prevented from returning home based on the 2017 Muslim ban. Football is no longer so important as Kareem directs his energy in finding ways to bring attention and justice to the issue.
Written entirely in verse, the word placement helps to illustrate the story. Football definitions are integrated perfectly in the story. (I certainly learned a few new terms.)
“Syrian American, a between place that is both a part of two identities and a blended identity all it’s own.”
October 5, 2024
No I didn’t read it in less than a minute I just forgot to update.
This book was *chefs kiss* so deep. This book was about this Syrian American boy named Kareem. He wants to get into football, but during this time everything starts falling out and he has to learn to manage his family world and school world together. Throughout the book there were little fun facts about the NFL which were so much fun to read about and how the author relates it to Kareem. It was such an eye opener to me about the struggles during this time, I was too young to really know about. But I’m glad I stumbled upon this new book in my library and got to learn how change is possible, unifying people together for a greater cause.
This book was *chefs kiss* so deep. This book was about this Syrian American boy named Kareem. He wants to get into football, but during this time everything starts falling out and he has to learn to manage his family world and school world together. Throughout the book there were little fun facts about the NFL which were so much fun to read about and how the author relates it to Kareem. It was such an eye opener to me about the struggles during this time, I was too young to really know about. But I’m glad I stumbled upon this new book in my library and got to learn how change is possible, unifying people together for a greater cause.
February 10, 2025
5 stars. Can see why this won National Book Award for Young People.
Kareem is a Syrian American Muslim middle schooler in love with football, especially the Chicago Bears.
Austin is son of coach, wants him to help with/do his homework and then Kareem can get in spring football team - a kind of bullying having to do all his homework
Best friend moves away and may switch teams
Feels invisible and unheard
Middle child
Missing a best friend like stopping a book at the middle never knowing what the page reveal
Oskie - one of a few football terms I didn’t know.
Being a stranger doesn’t mean you are an outsider
Why do the bad guys represent all of us
Doing the right thing is always right
Anything can happen on any given Sunday
Hope is alive as long as you look for it
Lots of family stuff effected by the “Muslim ban” of 2017, author note says story is based on actual events
Kareem is a Syrian American Muslim middle schooler in love with football, especially the Chicago Bears.
Austin is son of coach, wants him to help with/do his homework and then Kareem can get in spring football team - a kind of bullying having to do all his homework
Best friend moves away and may switch teams
Feels invisible and unheard
Middle child
Missing a best friend like stopping a book at the middle never knowing what the page reveal
Oskie - one of a few football terms I didn’t know.
Being a stranger doesn’t mean you are an outsider
Why do the bad guys represent all of us
Doing the right thing is always right
Anything can happen on any given Sunday
Hope is alive as long as you look for it
Lots of family stuff effected by the “Muslim ban” of 2017, author note says story is based on actual events
June 28, 2024
Poignant. Memorable. Moving.
Although it’s a seamless page turner, it is also a skillfully written story that offers pauses for depths of understanding of living in-between here and there, back when and now.
I wish I could fully convey why this is debut novel in verse I highly recommend for all ages, even though it is intended for middle graders ages 8-12. It offers depths and nuances into refugee and Muslim life in ways very few stories are able to do. It lends itself to necessary conversations about belonging or not.
It is tender and unforgettable.
*grateful for my gifted advance copy
Although it’s a seamless page turner, it is also a skillfully written story that offers pauses for depths of understanding of living in-between here and there, back when and now.
I wish I could fully convey why this is debut novel in verse I highly recommend for all ages, even though it is intended for middle graders ages 8-12. It offers depths and nuances into refugee and Muslim life in ways very few stories are able to do. It lends itself to necessary conversations about belonging or not.
It is tender and unforgettable.
*grateful for my gifted advance copy
December 11, 2024
I was teetering between 4 & 5 stars but decided to go with 5 because of strong message that this book gives. I love the idea that being "between," between Syrian and American, was a strength and not a weakness.
Growing up as a biracial Vietnamese American, I also often felt not Vietnamese enough in some circles, and not American enough in others. This story celebrates that in between space.
The book is a little heavy on the Football references, but in a cute way? I learned some new football terms because of it. &i am rooting for Kareem to be the first Syrian American NFL player for sure!
Growing up as a biracial Vietnamese American, I also often felt not Vietnamese enough in some circles, and not American enough in others. This story celebrates that in between space.
The book is a little heavy on the Football references, but in a cute way? I learned some new football terms because of it. &i am rooting for Kareem to be the first Syrian American NFL player for sure!
August 24, 2025
Kareem Between describes the challenging years of middle school from the POV of a 7th grade Syrian American boy trying to navigate the loss of his best friend and his desire to make new friends by trying out for his school's football team. He feels as if his life is imploding as he faces an assortment of seemingly insolvable problems. Yet somehow, he finds the support he needs in new friends and through his loving, caring family. Winner of the National Book Award for Young Readers for 2024.
September 4, 2024
Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi Is a powerful coming-of-age novel-in-verse about a Syrian-American boy and his struggles, both big and small, as he navigates middle school. This book is all the things: powerful, emotional, lyrical, quintessential middle school, football and much, much more. Written against the backdrop of Executive Order 13769, also known as the Muslim ban, the format of the book invites readers to swim into the white space on the page and linger to explore the multitude of emotions they’re likely experiencing. Readers will likely relate to feeling invisible, trying to figure out who they are in an in-between world and ultimately realizing that the only validation they need comes from inside. This book imprinted its way onto my heart and is so needed in the world today.
November 24, 2024
This was an excellent read. It humanizes the immigrant experience in the current political landscape. It was very interesting to read about it from a young person’s perspective. Shifa Safadi explains things in a way that middle grade students with be able to understand and appreciate what happened and continues to happen.
Congrats on the NBA award, well deserved.
Read as part of a Newbery contenders challenge.
Congrats on the NBA award, well deserved.
Read as part of a Newbery contenders challenge.
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