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Sophie
Leo remembers the first time he met Sophie. When Leo first approached her, she was so focused on the book in front of her that she didn’t even notice him. Now, as Leo grows closer to Sophie, he begins to appreciate this aspect of his friend’s personality. Sophie possesses a sense of pride and determination that can take her far in life, but the actions of a conniving adult may ruin everything. Sophie is hiding a secret. She and her mother are illegal immigrants from Syria. Sophie learned the American ideals of independence and perseverance from her wise grandfather, and she is determined to find a way for her family to stay legally. She and Leo start a business together to raise money so Sophie can hire an immigration lawyer. But can one thirteen-year-old girl really keep her family safe? When Ingrid Sanders, a local politician who knows about Sophie’s secret, begins using the girl for her own ends, Sophie is faced with an enormously difficult decision. Should she go along with Ingrid’s schemes, or should she stand up for what she believes in? The decision will have a major impact on Sophie, her mother, and Leo himself!
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2018
21 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Tal Tsfany
7 books14 followersWhen Tal Tsfany was looking for books with role models for his three children, he had a difficult time. He couldn’t find many stories with strong, virtuous role models, so he decided to make his own! The title character of Sophie embodies integrity, independence, and rationality. Sophie’s story portrays the importance of discovering and practicing the right principles.
Tsfany is an entrepreneur and an executive in the computer software industry. He received his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and master’s in business administration. He is the proud father of Ron, Shiri, and Yael.
Tsfany is an entrepreneur and an executive in the computer software industry. He received his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and master’s in business administration. He is the proud father of Ron, Shiri, and Yael.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 30, 2018
An endearing story of two 13-year olds: Leo, a middle-class, fair-haired hometown boy, and Sophie, a poor but self-assured Syrian immigrant. Leo loves to draw and write stories while Sophie is brilliant, hard-working, and opinionated and yet the two seem to click. Sophie's mother is ill, and Sophie works for the money they need to pay rent, eat, and pay an immigration lawyer so they can become citizens. While Sophie does not want nor seek charity, some people are kind hearted while others seek to take advantage: both classmates and adults and Sophie is eventually manipulated into an untenable situation, where she refuses to become a pawn. The storyline and illustrations are very good, but this is a book that can be read as a story or one requiring a lot of thought, especially around redistribution of wealth and the proper role of government. My only criticism is that Sophie is too adult for 13-years old, regardless of the hardships she and her family have faced.
June 30, 2018
Sophie is a story about two 13-year-old kids living in a small town. Leo is a budding artist who, like any 13 year old boy is just beginning to learn who he is becoming. He meets Sophie, a self-assured young girl who has emigrated from Syria. She is very smart, hard-working, and has very definite opinions. Leo learns that she and her mother are in the country illegally and her father is being held as a political prisoner or is possibly dead. Their relationship unfolds against the backdrop of the drama of typical American small town politics.
The story reads like a cross between a chapter book and with charming illustrations punctuating each chapter, the graphic novels that fascinates Leo so much. It is designated as middle grade, yet reads more as political satire intended for a less educated adult audience. Unfortunately, the over-strong ideals detract from what would otherwise be fantastic storytelling. Actually, it reads like an easy to read Ayn Rand story. Sophie is understandably more mature for her age given her life experience, yet she is a bit too perfect, a bit too educated, not to mention a bit too cynical, especially in contrast to the typical behavior of Leo and the other kids in their class. Overall the story was an enjoyable read, just not a book I would suggest for anyone before their junior or senior year of high school when they can truly begin to decide for themselves what selfishness is and how helping the weakest members of society truly helps or doesn't.
I received this in a Goodreads giveaway
The opinions are my own
The story reads like a cross between a chapter book and with charming illustrations punctuating each chapter, the graphic novels that fascinates Leo so much. It is designated as middle grade, yet reads more as political satire intended for a less educated adult audience. Unfortunately, the over-strong ideals detract from what would otherwise be fantastic storytelling. Actually, it reads like an easy to read Ayn Rand story. Sophie is understandably more mature for her age given her life experience, yet she is a bit too perfect, a bit too educated, not to mention a bit too cynical, especially in contrast to the typical behavior of Leo and the other kids in their class. Overall the story was an enjoyable read, just not a book I would suggest for anyone before their junior or senior year of high school when they can truly begin to decide for themselves what selfishness is and how helping the weakest members of society truly helps or doesn't.
I received this in a Goodreads giveaway
The opinions are my own
April 24, 2018
Regardless of the shelves such as "children's" or "young adult," this novel is appropriate for adults - especially those of us who require a lesson update on integrity, thinking for oneself, and living those beliefs. An especially delightful read with realistic dialogue and a plot that is more believable than 85% of those NYT bestseller thrillers.
I found both the novel "Sophie" and the character, Sophie -who now lives in my head as clearly as some of my friends - absolutely delightful. I do hope this title becomes part of a series.
I found both the novel "Sophie" and the character, Sophie -who now lives in my head as clearly as some of my friends - absolutely delightful. I do hope this title becomes part of a series.
June 24, 2018
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Pros: I really like the friendship between the two main characters. I also thought Sophie had some wonderful qualities. She's smart, she sticks up for herself, she's loyal to her friend, her work ethic is great and she wants to learn new things, both in and out of school. She's a likable character and a great role model in these ways.
Cons: Some solutions to problems are too simplified. For example, the bully. This is a guy who physically assaults peers, and has done so for so long, that everyone knows to avoid him. However, all you have to do is offer to tutor him for 1 week so he can get an A on a math test, and problem solved, no more bullying. The other issue I have is the reiteration throughout this book that taxes are bad and that if you give poor people money, it turns them lazy. First, Sophie spends a lot of time at the library and even uses the computers there to make money. Taxes go to pay for libraries. Taxes also go to pay for schools. You might not want an excess of taxes, but some are necessary, especially to her daily life. Second, poor people can sometimes work two jobs and still need help; like food stamps. Thinking all poor people are lazy is statistically wrong and a depressing way to see humanity.
Pros: I really like the friendship between the two main characters. I also thought Sophie had some wonderful qualities. She's smart, she sticks up for herself, she's loyal to her friend, her work ethic is great and she wants to learn new things, both in and out of school. She's a likable character and a great role model in these ways.
Cons: Some solutions to problems are too simplified. For example, the bully. This is a guy who physically assaults peers, and has done so for so long, that everyone knows to avoid him. However, all you have to do is offer to tutor him for 1 week so he can get an A on a math test, and problem solved, no more bullying. The other issue I have is the reiteration throughout this book that taxes are bad and that if you give poor people money, it turns them lazy. First, Sophie spends a lot of time at the library and even uses the computers there to make money. Taxes go to pay for libraries. Taxes also go to pay for schools. You might not want an excess of taxes, but some are necessary, especially to her daily life. Second, poor people can sometimes work two jobs and still need help; like food stamps. Thinking all poor people are lazy is statistically wrong and a depressing way to see humanity.
June 29, 2018
I received this book for free through a giveaway hosted on GoodReads.
Sophie by Tal Tsfany is a beautiful and moving narrative, and will remain with readers for a long time. And although the story takes place in an earlier decade, the events and message are so relevant to today’s political scene, for better or for worse. It follows the narrator, Leo, and his friendship with a young Syrian immigrant named Sophie Anwar. He learns early in their friendship that Sophie and her mother and in the country illegally, having left the Middle East to escape the dangers of a dictatorship, as well as the fact both her father and grandfather are known dissidents to the regime, and their visas had run out before they were able to apply for permanent citizenship. To make matters worse, Sophie’s mother is ill and cannot work, leaving managing of the finances, and later the act of earning moneyfor food and bills, to Sophie, on top of trying to save enough money to pay their immigration lawyer to continue their immigration process. It seems that the harder Sophie tried to get ahead, however, the more obstacles fall in her way, including a conniving mayoral candidate who is not near as kind-hearted as she tried to portray herself.
My heart ached for Sophie throughout the whole book. She was a smart, creative, and relatable character, and felt like a real young woman, rather than just a creation on a page. She is outspoken and logical, and does not allow others to push her around, though she also knows well how to hold a proper debate and make her conversations partner (usually Leo) really think about their side of the issue, rather than just holding a “my opinions is the Right opinion” point of view or allowing the discussion to devolve into useless bickering. I was actually very jealous of Leo for having her as a friend, though at the same time felt bad for him that he would at only 13 likely have to deal with many issue that most adults would be loath to deal with. Still, although I knew just from the fact she was an illegal immigrant that things would be a lot more complicated for her than the money troubles she starts out with, I could not help but root for her, hoping and praying that things would work out somehow, that she would earn the money she needed and her and her mother’s papers would go through in the nick of time, and anyone who tried to use her immigration status against her would be too late. And without giving away too much, I can say things work out alright in the end, though not quite in the way I had wished, and although the ending left me wanting so much more from Sophie and her loyal friend Leo, I do feel the story gave us just enough that the ending felt fitting, and even satisfying, while leaving a lasting impression.
This book was incredibly written, and I truly cannot think of anything off the top of my head to improve upon. The characters were great and realistic, the story was engaging, and Tsfany’s style is amazing, with every plot point so well planned and every comma in its place. The only small thing that did bother me was that he used “ok” instead of “okay”, though when taken along with the rest of the book is barely more than a pet peeve, and I barely even noticed as I got further into the book, too drawn in to notice something as small as an unnecessary abbreviation. Sophie made me laugh and cry, it broke my heart and caused it to soar in turn, and I am disappointed that Tsfany only has one book so far, as I wish I could read more of his work. At the same time, however, I am hopeful that he will write more in the future, and create wonderful character in the future.
I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who has the opportunity to read it, and would even recommend it as a book to be used in the classroom. As it is about a Syrian refugee, and the struggle of those who come here illegally in order to escape danger to avoid deportment while also unable to make enough money to properly care for themselves much of the time, much less pay the necessary fees to legalize their citizenship. Furthermore, it raises other moral grey areas, such as what methods and amounts of assistance for the poor are right without encouraging dependency, or whether selfishness is truly as bad as our society teaches us it is, which may encourage interesting debates and give the book real-world meaning. It also brings up political corruption and the flaws of the American educational system, which may be too much for some readers, but lend higher-level challenges for more advanced students, as well as making the book thought-provoking to adults who read it. These are all debates which we, as a country, need to have, as so much of what we are dealing with in politics today related to these moral questions, and though I do not agree fully with everything which Sophie believes, she makes many good points, and truly made me think about what flaws my own logic might hold. Overall, though, the biggest effect it had on me was the sympathy I felt for Sophie’s struggles as an immigrant. With all the debate over illegal immigration and the conflict in the Middle East, my heart goes out to anyone who finds themselves in the middle of such complicated situations, especially the children who are forced to grow up so quickly because their lives are in too much danger to allow them to truly act like children. I can only hope that as many as possible can be given the optimistic futures that Sophie’s own eventually finds.
Sophie by Tal Tsfany is a beautiful and moving narrative, and will remain with readers for a long time. And although the story takes place in an earlier decade, the events and message are so relevant to today’s political scene, for better or for worse. It follows the narrator, Leo, and his friendship with a young Syrian immigrant named Sophie Anwar. He learns early in their friendship that Sophie and her mother and in the country illegally, having left the Middle East to escape the dangers of a dictatorship, as well as the fact both her father and grandfather are known dissidents to the regime, and their visas had run out before they were able to apply for permanent citizenship. To make matters worse, Sophie’s mother is ill and cannot work, leaving managing of the finances, and later the act of earning moneyfor food and bills, to Sophie, on top of trying to save enough money to pay their immigration lawyer to continue their immigration process. It seems that the harder Sophie tried to get ahead, however, the more obstacles fall in her way, including a conniving mayoral candidate who is not near as kind-hearted as she tried to portray herself.
My heart ached for Sophie throughout the whole book. She was a smart, creative, and relatable character, and felt like a real young woman, rather than just a creation on a page. She is outspoken and logical, and does not allow others to push her around, though she also knows well how to hold a proper debate and make her conversations partner (usually Leo) really think about their side of the issue, rather than just holding a “my opinions is the Right opinion” point of view or allowing the discussion to devolve into useless bickering. I was actually very jealous of Leo for having her as a friend, though at the same time felt bad for him that he would at only 13 likely have to deal with many issue that most adults would be loath to deal with. Still, although I knew just from the fact she was an illegal immigrant that things would be a lot more complicated for her than the money troubles she starts out with, I could not help but root for her, hoping and praying that things would work out somehow, that she would earn the money she needed and her and her mother’s papers would go through in the nick of time, and anyone who tried to use her immigration status against her would be too late. And without giving away too much, I can say things work out alright in the end, though not quite in the way I had wished, and although the ending left me wanting so much more from Sophie and her loyal friend Leo, I do feel the story gave us just enough that the ending felt fitting, and even satisfying, while leaving a lasting impression.
This book was incredibly written, and I truly cannot think of anything off the top of my head to improve upon. The characters were great and realistic, the story was engaging, and Tsfany’s style is amazing, with every plot point so well planned and every comma in its place. The only small thing that did bother me was that he used “ok” instead of “okay”, though when taken along with the rest of the book is barely more than a pet peeve, and I barely even noticed as I got further into the book, too drawn in to notice something as small as an unnecessary abbreviation. Sophie made me laugh and cry, it broke my heart and caused it to soar in turn, and I am disappointed that Tsfany only has one book so far, as I wish I could read more of his work. At the same time, however, I am hopeful that he will write more in the future, and create wonderful character in the future.
I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who has the opportunity to read it, and would even recommend it as a book to be used in the classroom. As it is about a Syrian refugee, and the struggle of those who come here illegally in order to escape danger to avoid deportment while also unable to make enough money to properly care for themselves much of the time, much less pay the necessary fees to legalize their citizenship. Furthermore, it raises other moral grey areas, such as what methods and amounts of assistance for the poor are right without encouraging dependency, or whether selfishness is truly as bad as our society teaches us it is, which may encourage interesting debates and give the book real-world meaning. It also brings up political corruption and the flaws of the American educational system, which may be too much for some readers, but lend higher-level challenges for more advanced students, as well as making the book thought-provoking to adults who read it. These are all debates which we, as a country, need to have, as so much of what we are dealing with in politics today related to these moral questions, and though I do not agree fully with everything which Sophie believes, she makes many good points, and truly made me think about what flaws my own logic might hold. Overall, though, the biggest effect it had on me was the sympathy I felt for Sophie’s struggles as an immigrant. With all the debate over illegal immigration and the conflict in the Middle East, my heart goes out to anyone who finds themselves in the middle of such complicated situations, especially the children who are forced to grow up so quickly because their lives are in too much danger to allow them to truly act like children. I can only hope that as many as possible can be given the optimistic futures that Sophie’s own eventually finds.
May 3, 2018
The day before Leo turned thirteen he met Sophie. As he gets to know his classmate better he is drawn to her personality and how she isn't quite like the other kids at school. Sophie is also hiding a secret, one that could put both her and her mother in danger. They are illegal immigrants from Syria and Sophie is determined to earn enough money to hire an immigration lawyer so they can apply to stay in the United States legally. But a local politician puts Sophie in an uncomfortable position and she is forced to make a decision about whether or not she should stand up for what she believes in.
While this might be considered a middle-grade novel, it is definitely one an adult can appreciate as well. In some ways I would say it's complex enough that an adult might get more out of the book than a child. Sophie is a character who is wise beyond her years and definitely could teach some adults a thing or two. The subject matter is certainly relevant given how illegal immigration is such a hot button issue. I'd definitely recommend especially if you are interested in the topic and are looking for a book with a strong female character.
I won this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
While this might be considered a middle-grade novel, it is definitely one an adult can appreciate as well. In some ways I would say it's complex enough that an adult might get more out of the book than a child. Sophie is a character who is wise beyond her years and definitely could teach some adults a thing or two. The subject matter is certainly relevant given how illegal immigration is such a hot button issue. I'd definitely recommend especially if you are interested in the topic and are looking for a book with a strong female character.
I won this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
May 12, 2018
I really liked this YA novel. Good plot, driven by excellent characters and a really strong, young female role model. Throughout this enjoyable story are some very philosophical ideas that some might find challenging their own beliefs. I did find myself raising my eyebrow a couple times- not sure why the author would use the "lazy and needy" phrase... and also the subject of science over religion. Not that I necessarily disagree-- BUT some parents might find some objections to the political, religious and philosophical issues that come up in the book. The good news (and I applaud the author for it) is that for the most part these issues are handled in a non-judgemental way. Progressive parents will probably love this book, where conservative parents might not want to expose their children to 'other viewpoints'-- which would be really sad because the overall story is inspiring and extremely well written.
I luckily won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
I luckily won a copy of this book in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2018
Sophie is a strong, courageous, and beautiful intellectual. She confronts Leo with all sorts of ideas that are different than how he has always viewed the world. I take this as my personal imperative to be more open-minded. I try to surround myself with people (and books) that may not always hold the same views I do. But when you can respectfully converse about any given topic (as Leo and Sophie try to do), it helps you grow: you may become more convinced that your way of thinking is still correct (well then, good for you), or you may find that you have been wrong for many years (perish the thought!). Either way, open, respectful dialogue is key. I may not agree with all that Sophie challenged Leo, but I can appreciate her (as a character) and the author for their views. I really, really loved this story (and Sophie). Can't wait until my kids are a little older so I can read it with them!
May 4, 2018
There was a lot to like about Sophie. It's neat to learn about this intelligent, opinionated, determined girl through the eyes of her new best friend, Leo. We see them solve problems, large and small, as they make their way through the school year. (I'm not describing the problems, as I'm trying very hard to avoid spoilers!) The main characters are interesting and likable, the villains villainous, and the events (sometimes sadly) believable.
I'd like to whole-heartedly recommend this book, but there's one significant problem. Sophie delivers a lot of over-the-top, Ayn Rand/Libertarian lectures. Her message isn't one I'd want to promote for young people in my life. Sophie is a great book, but the story needs to be a jumping-off point for discussion, not a lesson.
I'd like to whole-heartedly recommend this book, but there's one significant problem. Sophie delivers a lot of over-the-top, Ayn Rand/Libertarian lectures. Her message isn't one I'd want to promote for young people in my life. Sophie is a great book, but the story needs to be a jumping-off point for discussion, not a lesson.
April 17, 2018
Interesting story of Sophie, who is illegal in the states and tries to save her and her mother.
A young girl immigrant from Syria, she has more life experience than any junior high student should. She meets Leo and they become fast friends. Sophie teaches Leo and everyone else she encounters, to question their belief systems and do what they feel is best for themselves.
Very quick read, enjoyable. First book from this author, i really enjoyed. Thank you.
"Follow your passion and don’t ever compromise. Even if it makes you suffer in the short term."
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway!
June 19, 2018
This book surprised me in several ways.
First, it wasn't written from the point of view of Sophie - instead, it was written from Leo's perspective. I think that was appropriate for this book. Sophie was already a little bit full of herself; not that she did anything wrong, she just was a little bit unbelievably moral, especially for someone her age.
That's the next thing that was surprising - Sophie was so moral and grown up. Yes, I do know that some kids have to take charge and take care of their families the way Sophie did, but I had the idea that this was meant to be a children's book, and I just felt that this was written a little too maturely for that.
The last thing I was surprised about was how much stuff the author shoved into this book. Again, I had the idea that this was a children's book, so I felt that some of the things should have been explained a little more, but mostly, everything was just mentioned in passing. Maybe more than once, but still in passing. Sophie would say how she felt about something, maybe... "I don't want to take the free money because it belongs to the people that earned it", and then that'd be it. We'd move on to something else.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
First, it wasn't written from the point of view of Sophie - instead, it was written from Leo's perspective. I think that was appropriate for this book. Sophie was already a little bit full of herself; not that she did anything wrong, she just was a little bit unbelievably moral, especially for someone her age.
That's the next thing that was surprising - Sophie was so moral and grown up. Yes, I do know that some kids have to take charge and take care of their families the way Sophie did, but I had the idea that this was meant to be a children's book, and I just felt that this was written a little too maturely for that.
The last thing I was surprised about was how much stuff the author shoved into this book. Again, I had the idea that this was a children's book, so I felt that some of the things should have been explained a little more, but mostly, everything was just mentioned in passing. Maybe more than once, but still in passing. Sophie would say how she felt about something, maybe... "I don't want to take the free money because it belongs to the people that earned it", and then that'd be it. We'd move on to something else.
Note: I received this book for free through Goodreads Giveaways.
March 17, 2018
*I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway*
This story turned out better than I expected! I'm always surprised by the YA stories because they really inspire and hold my attention.
Leo and Sophie met under a tree, which eventually became their meeting place. Two very unlikely kids met and taught each other valuable lessons about character, perseverance, and integrity in the end.
"Follow your passion and don’t ever compromise. Even if it makes you suffer in the short term."
What a great piece of advice from a kid, working hard to care for her sick mother and herself.
This story turned out better than I expected! I'm always surprised by the YA stories because they really inspire and hold my attention.
Leo and Sophie met under a tree, which eventually became their meeting place. Two very unlikely kids met and taught each other valuable lessons about character, perseverance, and integrity in the end.
"Follow your passion and don’t ever compromise. Even if it makes you suffer in the short term."
What a great piece of advice from a kid, working hard to care for her sick mother and herself.
April 17, 2018
Not a saccharine feel good novel, but a deeply philosophical look into motivations and influences. Using the personages of an impoverished immigrant student with excellent language skills and a middle class student with a more artistic nature, the reader is also encouraged to apply logic and questioning to life. Bullies can be made to back down when faced by implacability and logic regardless of status if one stands quietly firm despite one's own fears. A fine read!
I requested and received a free review copy courtesy of a Goodreads Giveaway.
I requested and received a free review copy courtesy of a Goodreads Giveaway.
January 21, 2019
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Although I liked the two main characters, I felt like they weren't given much to do, and the writing seemed a bit clunky. The ending was FAR too convenient and didn't really tie in with the rest of the story very well. The illustrations were cute, but when the pictures are my favorite thing about a book, I feel like that doesn't say much for the rest of it. Overall, I wasn't all that impressed.
Although I liked the two main characters, I felt like they weren't given much to do, and the writing seemed a bit clunky. The ending was FAR too convenient and didn't really tie in with the rest of the story very well. The illustrations were cute, but when the pictures are my favorite thing about a book, I feel like that doesn't say much for the rest of it. Overall, I wasn't all that impressed.
April 9, 2018
Sophie was a very intriguing book meant for a younger audience than me. I think we could all learn something from Sophie, though. As a young immigrant from Syria, she has more life experience than any junior high student should. She soon meets Leo and they become fast friends. Sophie teaches Leo, and everyone else she encounters, to question their belief systems and do what they feel is best for themselves. Very infrequently do I see a book that teaches selfishness as a positive character trait - and I think that is excellent! This was a quick read, but by the end you'll engrossed by the story and enamored by Sophie and Leo. I highly recommend this book for people of all ages who just want a quick, thought-provoking read.
April 8, 2018
This is a cute young adult story. The author includes topics in his story about Sophie that should make the young adult think and develop their own thoughts and opinions about what is going on our society. I loved how he had his son illustrate the pictures in the book. A book worth our young adults should read. I will pass it along to my grandkids when they are older.
April 18, 2018
I enjoyed this book. Sometimes you forget that other people have problems, this book makes you think about that. It is nice to see characters that care for one another and take time to explain themselves and their actions without hurting anyone else's feeling. I'm today's world we all need to be more understanding of everything.
August 28, 2018
I got this in a goodreads giveaway.
I’m not sure how I feel about the book. Sophie is certainly the most mature 13 year d I’ve ever heard of.
At first I thought this was going to be a thoughtful book about the plights of refugees and immigrants. But it seemed more like an economic policy book for kids. A lot of heavy theory for kids to work through.
I’m not sure how I feel about the book. Sophie is certainly the most mature 13 year d I’ve ever heard of.
At first I thought this was going to be a thoughtful book about the plights of refugees and immigrants. But it seemed more like an economic policy book for kids. A lot of heavy theory for kids to work through.
September 13, 2018
Outstanding YA Story
Philosophical yet this-worldly, it is the tale of two young teens and their experiences at school, at home, at work, and in the community. Thought provoking and thoroughly discussable. Heroic and real, a pleasure to read.
Philosophical yet this-worldly, it is the tale of two young teens and their experiences at school, at home, at work, and in the community. Thought provoking and thoroughly discussable. Heroic and real, a pleasure to read.
March 12, 2018
Great read.
April 17, 2018
A sweet story that will help young readers form opinions about the world.
August 26, 2018
A sweet story that deals with hard issues like friendship, immigration and family loyalties. The kids in the book read older than 13 to me but this is well written and smart.
July 16, 2018
Goodreads giveaway
November 13, 2022
well that was depressing
Want to read
March 23, 2018Placeholder
I won this book via Goodreads Giveaways.
I won this book via Goodreads Giveaways.
May 19, 2018
One time, when I asked her why she always to be in a hurry, she said, “There’s a book next to my bed waiting for me.”
I got this ARC from NetGally in exchange of an honest review.
This book is about Sophie & Leo. Sophie who is an illegal immigrant from Syria, Leo who becomes her new neighbor in America. She loves books, and has a different take on life that she got from her grandfather. She is proud and never bows her head. He loves to draw, and is a very average American teenage boy. Then they met under a oak tree.
I loved the way is described what “Sharing is caring” originally means.
“Not everything in life is fair, and we all need to learn how to deal with it”
– Mr. Summer
There are many life lessons in this book and these are described so simply that it won my heart. I am seriously planning on getting a copy for myself persons-0007 What I loved the most is that after the “problem” it didn’t show that everything magically got fixed, it showed a logical ending and a very magical one. Love.. Love.. Love this book!!
Rating:
4.5 Stars ❤
I got this ARC from NetGally in exchange of an honest review.
This book is about Sophie & Leo. Sophie who is an illegal immigrant from Syria, Leo who becomes her new neighbor in America. She loves books, and has a different take on life that she got from her grandfather. She is proud and never bows her head. He loves to draw, and is a very average American teenage boy. Then they met under a oak tree.
I loved the way is described what “Sharing is caring” originally means.
“Not everything in life is fair, and we all need to learn how to deal with it”
– Mr. Summer
There are many life lessons in this book and these are described so simply that it won my heart. I am seriously planning on getting a copy for myself persons-0007 What I loved the most is that after the “problem” it didn’t show that everything magically got fixed, it showed a logical ending and a very magical one. Love.. Love.. Love this book!!
Rating:
4.5 Stars ❤
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April 2, 2018I don't read YA books very often but I just started this one!
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