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Other Words for Home
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Middle Grade & Children's (2019)I am learning how to be
sad
and happy
at the same time.
Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives.
At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.
sad
and happy
at the same time.
Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives.
At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.
Audible Audio
First published May 28, 2019
1771 people are currently reading
40893 people want to read
About the author
Jasmine Warga
22 books2,324 followersJasmine Warga is a writer from Cincinnati, Ohio who currently resides in Chicago, Illinois. She is the internationally bestselling author of My Heart and Other Black Holes and Here We Are Now. Her books have been published in over twenty-five countries and optioned for film. Her debut middle grade novel, Other Words For Home, will be published in Spring 2019. Jasmine lives in an apartment filled with books with her husband, two tiny daughters, large dog, and mischievous cat.
**I am only on Goodreads when one of my publishers sets up a Q&A for me, so the best way to contact me is through my website: www.jasminewarga.com or on twitter: @jasminewarga. Thank you so much for reading my books!**
**I am only on Goodreads when one of my publishers sets up a Q&A for me, so the best way to contact me is through my website: www.jasminewarga.com or on twitter: @jasminewarga. Thank you so much for reading my books!**
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,249 reviews
Want to read
December 17, 2018More hijabi girls on the cover? Hell yeah
June 25, 2019
Perfection
December 25, 2022
Middle grade out here representing my Muslim identity better than any YA or adult book.
“There is an Arabic proverb that says:
She makes you feel
like a loaf of freshly baked bread.
It is said about
the nicest
kindest
people.
The type of people
who help you
rise.”
This story perfectly depicts what it is like to be an immigrant, to have parents who are immigrants, the difficulty of assimilating into a society that strongly believes you don’t belong.
We follow Jude, a young Syrian refugee who moves to the US with her mother, leaving home due to the civil unrest, trying to navigate life in America. Of being Syrian and American.
I love that we got to see the struggles of what home and America means through the lens of a child. There were so many things that were touched upon, so many prejudices Muslims and people of colour go through that were captured perfectly.
It’s a hopeful story though. It’s very much a story that is supposed to bring about important, cross-cultural dialogue and I can’t think of a better audience to start this conversation with than young children.
It needs to be required reading in schools.
“There is an Arabic proverb that says:
She makes you feel
like a loaf of freshly baked bread.
It is said about
the nicest
kindest
people.
The type of people
who help you
rise.”
This story perfectly depicts what it is like to be an immigrant, to have parents who are immigrants, the difficulty of assimilating into a society that strongly believes you don’t belong.
We follow Jude, a young Syrian refugee who moves to the US with her mother, leaving home due to the civil unrest, trying to navigate life in America. Of being Syrian and American.
I love that we got to see the struggles of what home and America means through the lens of a child. There were so many things that were touched upon, so many prejudices Muslims and people of colour go through that were captured perfectly.
It’s a hopeful story though. It’s very much a story that is supposed to bring about important, cross-cultural dialogue and I can’t think of a better audience to start this conversation with than young children.
It needs to be required reading in schools.
July 19, 2025
The story is told from the perspective of Jude who had to leave Syria with her mother to America due to the uncertain situation rising up in her hometown, leaving her father, older brother, her best friend and her relatives behind.
The themes handled in this book are coming of age; family bond; and most importantly the discrimination and the cultural differences which the immigrants have to face in another country.
I appreciate how the adults and the education system were represented as. It's rational and motivational.
What shook me the most was the way how immigrants get threatened for no fault of theirs.
And what made me cry was the uncertainty of not knowing whether young adults and teenagers like the older brother in the story was dead or alive. It just broke my heart.
But the book wrapped up well and good. It's beautiful and wholesome as well as educational and inspirational.
Loved the book. It will take hardly 2 hours to read it
The themes handled in this book are coming of age; family bond; and most importantly the discrimination and the cultural differences which the immigrants have to face in another country.
I appreciate how the adults and the education system were represented as. It's rational and motivational.
What shook me the most was the way how immigrants get threatened for no fault of theirs.
And what made me cry was the uncertainty of not knowing whether young adults and teenagers like the older brother in the story was dead or alive. It just broke my heart.
But the book wrapped up well and good. It's beautiful and wholesome as well as educational and inspirational.
Loved the book. It will take hardly 2 hours to read it
August 17, 2020
This was so, so good.
January 14, 2025
This is a middle grade book that is about a young Arabic girl just trying to find her place in American. The main character is Jude. Jude comes to American with her mother, but leaves her brother and her Dad in her home country. I think this is a great book that teaches us you should not judge people by where they come from or look like. I really did not know if I would like this book, but I loved it.
September 29, 2019
book #5
completed! ✔ for the contemporary-a-thon under the challenge of: "read a hard-hitting contemporary"
beautiful. so beautiful.
the cover, the prose, the metaphors, the young syrian girl trying to make sense of a new world and keep her identity, the strong sense of belonging that this book left me with.
well done, jasmine warga.
“There is an Arabic proverb that says:
She makes you feel
like a loaf of freshly baked bread.
It is said about
the nicest
kindest
people.
The type of people
who help you
rise.”
beautiful. so beautiful.
the cover, the prose, the metaphors, the young syrian girl trying to make sense of a new world and keep her identity, the strong sense of belonging that this book left me with.
well done, jasmine warga.
September 1, 2020
This was such a beautifully-told story about a young girl forced to move to America with her mother from Syria during uncertain unrest. Leaving behind her father and brother, Jude tries to fit in at the American school she has gone to.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
May 29, 2019
I guess dinner tonight will be seasoned with my tears
Want to read
May 6, 2019
Another character named JUDE!
I was just commenting on this the other day. There are so many characters lately with the name Jude. I have never, ever in my life, met someone with that name!
What gives?!
August 14, 2022
4.5 stars
loved this book!! it was short and sweet but still carried a lot of important messages. i found it fascinating to read from the perspective of what america is like for a young immigrant. from scenes in an ESL classroom to skype calls from syria, this book was emotional but also hopeful and sweet. i absolutely recommend it!
loved this book!! it was short and sweet but still carried a lot of important messages. i found it fascinating to read from the perspective of what america is like for a young immigrant. from scenes in an ESL classroom to skype calls from syria, this book was emotional but also hopeful and sweet. i absolutely recommend it!
March 20, 2023
How have I never read a book by Jasmine Warga?!? How?!? Now, I want to and need to read everything by her. This book was absolute perfection.
Other Words for Home captures the story of Jude who is forced to leave her home in Syria with her mother. Before leaving, readers learn a little bit about Jude's love for American films and her disinterest in the political environment in Syria. After traveling to the US, Jude has tough time adjusting to the US and it's need to place labels on everything and everyone especially the term "Middle Eastern." Before long, Jude is able to make new friends and get involved in activities that help her find her voice and a new level of comfort in the United States.
What Worked: Everything about this book was beautiful. The writing was poetic, captivating, and kept me immersed in Jude's story. Warga did an amazing job exploring the familial dynamics that Jude experienced in Syria as well as in America. In Syria, she had a close relationship with her brother, but didn't feel compelled to rise up against the government in the same way. When she moves to America, she doesn't feel much connection to her cousin at all and ultimately has to find the courage to stand up to her after she continuously belittles her for being from a different country. Of course, Jude experiences bullying at the hands of classmates especially when a terrorist attack happens. It illustrated how some Westerners can find themselves so immersed in bigotry that they would blame a classmate and fellow community member for an attack that had nothing to with them; that they would assume that everyone who is a Muslim is a terrorist. I can't lie, it made me ashamed of the prejudice and discrimination that Muslim families experience in this country that is supposed to be the "melting pot" of the world. Not only did Jude experience this prejudice at school and in the community, but also at home with her aunt who didn't understand how excited Jude was to wear her hijab. For Jude it was sign of maturity and a journey into a new part of her life while her aunts simply saw it as a symbol of oppression. Nevertheless, Warga finds great balance in this book by providing Jude with moments of joy and courage. I was rooting for her when she stood up to her cousin regarding her wish to try out for the school musical. She was able to find her voice and her place in this new environment and community while also maintaining her love and appreciation for Syria. It was such a sweet and perfect balance.
Honestly, I could continue to rave about this book for ages, but I highly encourage all readers to pick this up. I will definitely spend some time exploring the rest of Jasmine Warga's bibliography.
Other Words for Home captures the story of Jude who is forced to leave her home in Syria with her mother. Before leaving, readers learn a little bit about Jude's love for American films and her disinterest in the political environment in Syria. After traveling to the US, Jude has tough time adjusting to the US and it's need to place labels on everything and everyone especially the term "Middle Eastern." Before long, Jude is able to make new friends and get involved in activities that help her find her voice and a new level of comfort in the United States.
What Worked: Everything about this book was beautiful. The writing was poetic, captivating, and kept me immersed in Jude's story. Warga did an amazing job exploring the familial dynamics that Jude experienced in Syria as well as in America. In Syria, she had a close relationship with her brother, but didn't feel compelled to rise up against the government in the same way. When she moves to America, she doesn't feel much connection to her cousin at all and ultimately has to find the courage to stand up to her after she continuously belittles her for being from a different country. Of course, Jude experiences bullying at the hands of classmates especially when a terrorist attack happens. It illustrated how some Westerners can find themselves so immersed in bigotry that they would blame a classmate and fellow community member for an attack that had nothing to with them; that they would assume that everyone who is a Muslim is a terrorist. I can't lie, it made me ashamed of the prejudice and discrimination that Muslim families experience in this country that is supposed to be the "melting pot" of the world. Not only did Jude experience this prejudice at school and in the community, but also at home with her aunt who didn't understand how excited Jude was to wear her hijab. For Jude it was sign of maturity and a journey into a new part of her life while her aunts simply saw it as a symbol of oppression. Nevertheless, Warga finds great balance in this book by providing Jude with moments of joy and courage. I was rooting for her when she stood up to her cousin regarding her wish to try out for the school musical. She was able to find her voice and her place in this new environment and community while also maintaining her love and appreciation for Syria. It was such a sweet and perfect balance.
Honestly, I could continue to rave about this book for ages, but I highly encourage all readers to pick this up. I will definitely spend some time exploring the rest of Jasmine Warga's bibliography.
May 2, 2020
Wow. Wow. Wow.
August 6, 2021
4 stars
Other Words for Home was a great middle grade about a young girl and her mom moving to America. One of my favorite things about this one is that it takes place in Clifton (a neighborhood in Cincinnati that’s near me) and it was fun to see Jude in places I knew.
Other Words for Home was a great middle grade about a young girl and her mom moving to America. One of my favorite things about this one is that it takes place in Clifton (a neighborhood in Cincinnati that’s near me) and it was fun to see Jude in places I knew.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Vaneh Assadourian
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Middle Grade
Length: 3h 50m
August 16, 2019
"I just want to live in a country where we can all have dinner again without shouting about our president or rebels and revolution."
Instagram | youtube
4.25/5 stars
As someone who doesn't read a lot of middle-grade, I was surprised to read a book so vulnerable, raw and realistic about Islamophobia. I think it's incredible that children, these days, get to read more diverse books like this when they're growing up.
"Americans love labels. They help them know what to expect. Sometimes, though, I think labels stop them from thinking."
Other Words From Home follows the story of Jude, a little girl from Syria who moves away from Home with her pregnant mother, leaving her father and revolutionary older brother behind. It follows Jude as she tries to keep her Muslim values under the racist pressure of an America post-terrorism.
"Some days I still feel lost in the halls of school. I know where I am going but I can't shake the feeling that I won't, that I don't, belong in whatever classroom I end up in."
As I said before, I completely adored this book. I thought the point of view of Jude was matured and contrasted; it showed that not all Muslims have the same experience, that all white people don't share the same views, and that mixed people are in trapped in between. The take was refreshingly unique and necessary. I can not stress that enough.
"This is not about you. It is about one person's ignorance and fear."
My only criticism with Other Words For Home was the format as it did nothing for me. The book is written in verses (sort off) but they don't rhyme, nor do they have an interesting rhythm. It felt more like an easy way to write short sentences than an artistic, necessary way to tell the story. It didn't feel any different from ordinary prose, only shorter.
Instagram | youtube
4.25/5 stars
As someone who doesn't read a lot of middle-grade, I was surprised to read a book so vulnerable, raw and realistic about Islamophobia. I think it's incredible that children, these days, get to read more diverse books like this when they're growing up.
"Americans love labels. They help them know what to expect. Sometimes, though, I think labels stop them from thinking."
Other Words From Home follows the story of Jude, a little girl from Syria who moves away from Home with her pregnant mother, leaving her father and revolutionary older brother behind. It follows Jude as she tries to keep her Muslim values under the racist pressure of an America post-terrorism.
"Some days I still feel lost in the halls of school. I know where I am going but I can't shake the feeling that I won't, that I don't, belong in whatever classroom I end up in."
As I said before, I completely adored this book. I thought the point of view of Jude was matured and contrasted; it showed that not all Muslims have the same experience, that all white people don't share the same views, and that mixed people are in trapped in between. The take was refreshingly unique and necessary. I can not stress that enough.
"This is not about you. It is about one person's ignorance and fear."
My only criticism with Other Words For Home was the format as it did nothing for me. The book is written in verses (sort off) but they don't rhyme, nor do they have an interesting rhythm. It felt more like an easy way to write short sentences than an artistic, necessary way to tell the story. It didn't feel any different from ordinary prose, only shorter.
May 18, 2021
This was amazing. I loved Jude's story so much and could not recommend this book enough!
Read
April 28, 2020CW: Islamophobia, islamophobic hate crime, war
This was such a precious, equally heartbreaking and hopeful story about identity, family and making a home away from home. Jude (pronounced Joo-deh) is a Syrian girl who, after things grow tense, dangerous and the future uncertain in her home country, gets whisked away by her mom to the US, leaving her dad and brother behind. A brother involved in the resistance movement in Syria.
This book was so easy to like. There isn't one single thing about it that I disliked. Jude is a loveable main character, both and vulnerable, brave, confident and unwavering in her beliefs. I loved seeing her grow more rooted and attached to her identity as Syrian and Muslim the more people tried prying them away from her. I loved that she had dreams, went after them not caring that people tell her that they're not for girls "like her" and showing them wrong when she succeeded. I loved how nurturing she was towards her mom and unborn baby sister, I loved how attached she was to her older brother, and seeing how worried sick about him and his safety she was broke my heart.
Other Words From Home also explores Islamophobia but it does so in little snippets, and subtle words weaved seamlessly with the rest of the story, which makes the topic accessible to the target audience. The topics of home and what it means were masterfully done, showing that making a new home doesn't mean you're abandoning your old one, that it is possible to make space in your heart for two homes, that loving both doesn't mean you love your first home, your mother country, any less and how hard it is to come to term with the fact that you need a new home at all.
And the fact that this was written in verse was just the cherry on top.
This was such a precious, equally heartbreaking and hopeful story about identity, family and making a home away from home. Jude (pronounced Joo-deh) is a Syrian girl who, after things grow tense, dangerous and the future uncertain in her home country, gets whisked away by her mom to the US, leaving her dad and brother behind. A brother involved in the resistance movement in Syria.
This book was so easy to like. There isn't one single thing about it that I disliked. Jude is a loveable main character, both and vulnerable, brave, confident and unwavering in her beliefs. I loved seeing her grow more rooted and attached to her identity as Syrian and Muslim the more people tried prying them away from her. I loved that she had dreams, went after them not caring that people tell her that they're not for girls "like her" and showing them wrong when she succeeded. I loved how nurturing she was towards her mom and unborn baby sister, I loved how attached she was to her older brother, and seeing how worried sick about him and his safety she was broke my heart.
Other Words From Home also explores Islamophobia but it does so in little snippets, and subtle words weaved seamlessly with the rest of the story, which makes the topic accessible to the target audience. The topics of home and what it means were masterfully done, showing that making a new home doesn't mean you're abandoning your old one, that it is possible to make space in your heart for two homes, that loving both doesn't mean you love your first home, your mother country, any less and how hard it is to come to term with the fact that you need a new home at all.
And the fact that this was written in verse was just the cherry on top.
June 27, 2020
This was such an important story, I really loved it!
May 22, 2022
I’d been wanting to read this book, so I’m glad I finally got to listen to the audiobook. Overall, I liked the story. It’s a touching story about a young Syrian girl, Jude, who immigrated to America with her mom, leaving behind her brother, father, and friends.
What didn’t quite work for me is that the storyline covers too much and at times Jude’s thoughts and behavior didn’t come across as genuine for a girl her age. I wish the story had been more focused. Even better if the story had been told from the POV of not only Jude, but her best friend in Syria too.
What didn’t quite work for me is that the storyline covers too much and at times Jude’s thoughts and behavior didn’t come across as genuine for a girl her age. I wish the story had been more focused. Even better if the story had been told from the POV of not only Jude, but her best friend in Syria too.
April 25, 2021
4.5 Stars
Well that was absolutely brilliant.
The writing was fabulous and Jude was one of the most engaging characters I have ever read in a middle school novel. She drew me in with her strength and determination to make America her home despite the fears she had for the safely of her family in Syria. I thoroughly recommend this moving and inspirational verse novel.
Well that was absolutely brilliant.
The writing was fabulous and Jude was one of the most engaging characters I have ever read in a middle school novel. She drew me in with her strength and determination to make America her home despite the fears she had for the safely of her family in Syria. I thoroughly recommend this moving and inspirational verse novel.
June 29, 2019
Stellar, breathtaking middle grade novel in verse. Adding to my 6th and 7th grade lit circle lists for next year!
June 17, 2020
The way to my heart is in verse.
January 16, 2020
This book is incredible. Seriously. I am hoping with my whole heart that it wins the Newbery or a Newbery Honor so it will get even more exposure and circulate through the hands of even MORE readers. There is so much to love about this book. I cherished every carefully placed word. Bravo, bravo.
August 21, 2021
written in verse and I absolutely loved it !!
March 26, 2020
"I'm learning how to be sad and happy at the same time."
Admittedly, I can be a bit shallow from time to time, and pick up a book simply because of the gorgeous cover. But, um, can you blame me?? Look at it!! Plus, it's a MG novel told in verse, so even if I decided it wasn't really my thing, it wouldn't take me super long to read.
Fortunately, this book was every bit as exceptional as I hoped it would be. It's a very lovely story about a twelve year old Syrian girl adjusting to life in America, and it's every bit as sweet and heartwarming as it sounds. The writing style is so beautiful, and truly served this story so well. I highlighted a large portion of this book, and although I couldn't possibly relate to what the MC is going through, the story resonated with me nonetheless. That's what makes this story so necessary - it doesn't merely portray an important topic, but it makes you feel something.
I've always told myself that novels in verse, as well as MG novels, weren't really my thing, but this certainly inspired me to pick up more. MG novels are told from the perspective of a child - which seems like duh, self - explanatory. But that's part of their magic - it's a child experiencing something most of us will never go through, and we get to see how their experience differs from those around them. Jude marvels at life in America, with curiosity and an open heart, yet she still struggles to feel like she belongs in a world that's completely different from the one she grew up in. I'm not going to go much more in depth, because there's not much more I can say to do this story justice, other than this: Read this.
Admittedly, I can be a bit shallow from time to time, and pick up a book simply because of the gorgeous cover. But, um, can you blame me?? Look at it!! Plus, it's a MG novel told in verse, so even if I decided it wasn't really my thing, it wouldn't take me super long to read.
Fortunately, this book was every bit as exceptional as I hoped it would be. It's a very lovely story about a twelve year old Syrian girl adjusting to life in America, and it's every bit as sweet and heartwarming as it sounds. The writing style is so beautiful, and truly served this story so well. I highlighted a large portion of this book, and although I couldn't possibly relate to what the MC is going through, the story resonated with me nonetheless. That's what makes this story so necessary - it doesn't merely portray an important topic, but it makes you feel something.
I've always told myself that novels in verse, as well as MG novels, weren't really my thing, but this certainly inspired me to pick up more. MG novels are told from the perspective of a child - which seems like duh, self - explanatory. But that's part of their magic - it's a child experiencing something most of us will never go through, and we get to see how their experience differs from those around them. Jude marvels at life in America, with curiosity and an open heart, yet she still struggles to feel like she belongs in a world that's completely different from the one she grew up in. I'm not going to go much more in depth, because there's not much more I can say to do this story justice, other than this: Read this.
June 21, 2021
SUCH. A. BEAUTIFUL. BOOK.
I LOVE how the author represented a hijabi girl, who didn't take off her hijab for a white boy lol.
A book about a Syrian refugee, who moves with her mom to America, leaving her older brother and father behind.
Very heartwarming!
I LOVE how the author represented a hijabi girl, who didn't take off her hijab for a white boy lol.
A book about a Syrian refugee, who moves with her mom to America, leaving her older brother and father behind.
Very heartwarming!
February 8, 2020
Review posted on Fafa's Book Corner!
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger Warning(s): Islamophobia, xenophobia, racism, discrimination, mention of war and physical violence, vandalism, and harassment.
Rep: Jude is Syrian. Sarah is American-Syrian. Grace is Korean. Ben is Chinese. Omar is Somali. Layla is American-Lebanese. Michelle and Miles are American.
Disclaimer: Other Words for Home was read during The Theme Thieves November challenge Standalone.
I won this book in a giveaway hosted by the lovely Soknou! Click the link for her Twitter profile.
My Synopsis: Jude loves her family and home! She spends her time with her best friend Fatima and her brother Issa, watching old American movies and singing American songs.
Due to the rising tension and war occurring in Syria, Issa changes. Now all Issa talks about is change, and in his own way he's working towards a better future for Syria. The brother who would sing Whitney Houston with Jude is no more. This new Issa is reckless and rarely comes home.
As tensions and violence continue to rise in Syria, Jude is told by her mother that the two of them will be leaving for America. Though her brother and father won't be coming. Her father wants to stay with his shop and Issa wants to continue to fight for a better Syria.
Jude isn't pleased with this news. She would rather stay home with her family and those she is familiar with. Then she hears that her mother is pregnant and agrees to go.
Once in America Jude and her mother experience culture shock. And it is proving to be difficult to adjust to life in an another country. It doesn't help that Jude's cousin Sarah makes no attempts at a civil relationship.
Jude finds solace in her ESL class. It's comforting for Jude to know that she is not the only one experiencing culture shock. With the help and support from their ESL teacher, the group strive and grow in their new environments.
Along the way Jude discovers her courage and stands up for what she believes is right. Maybe America can also become her home.
Book Format: Others Words for Home is written in verse (first person) following Jude. It's divided into six parts with roman numerals (which serve as the chapter numbers) beginning per part. There are some flower illustrations on top of the roman numerals. Plus some Arab, a glossary, and an authors notes which lists websites.
Where I Heard About this Book: I saw this book on GR.
My Thoughts Before Reading: I was so excited to read this!
Though I was a little concerned with the writing style. I haven't read many books in verse and wondered whether I would like the writing style.
I am very happy to say that I adored Other Words for Home!
What I Liked: I loved the writing style! I found that the verse was an excellent way of telling the story. Other Words for Home was complex whilst still being light. This writing style also allowed the author to perfectly capture life as an immigrant.
Jude's relationship with her family was beautiful and heartbreaking. She is close to her parents and her brother Issa. Of course once her brother becomes involved in the conflict, their relationship drastically changes. The entire family breaks apart. It was really painful to read about these changes. Especially when Jude is told, that she and her mother would move to America without her father and brother.
Once in America Jude and her mother have to settle and adjust to their new lifestyle. It's quite hard for Jude as she deeply misses her father and brother. Though now she is forming new familial connections with her uncle Mazin, aunt Michelle and her cousin Sarah.
Jude absolutely adores her aunt Michelle! Aunt Michelle speaks slowly so that Jude can under her and does everything she can to make Jude and her mother's life comfortable. Her uncle Mazin is always working, so he doesn't have a significant relationship with Jude in the beginning. Her cousin Sarah doesn't like her. Sarah mocks everything that Jude is. From her accent, to people she talks to, to the way she dresses, etc.
Throughout the book Jude does begin to understand Sarah's plight. To two reconcile towards the end of the book. Uncle Mazin and Jude develop a close relationship. Jude is even able to talk to Issa (she talks to her father regularly) and is finally at peace. When Jude's baby sister is born the family feels complete.
I appreciated how the author wrote all the familial relationships. Even though Jude's family is broken apart in the beginning, they come back to together stronger. And with more people.
I loved reading about Jude's friendships! The ESL class was such a joy to read about. I loved each and every one of the students. It was amazing how much they connected to one-another. I also loved Layla! Jude meets Layla at a Middle Eastern restaurant and the two immediately hit it off. Miles was also such a sweet friend to Jude! All of the people in her life provide Jude with a strong support system.
I absolutely loved Jude! She was open minded, patient, and most of all brave. Jude's character arc is about confronting her fears and choosing to be brave in this new country. Jude auditions for the school play despite opposition from her family and some friends. She strives to fight for and stand up for her beliefs.
I related to a lot of her experiences. Especially when Jude starts to wear a hijab, and she sees how people react to her while she dons the hijab. She also makes it clear that wearing the hijab is her choice, and that even she who is wearing a hijab, also cares about women's rights.
My favourite part is that Other Words for Home is a realistic middle grade!
My Criticism(s): Absolutely nothing!
What I'm Looking Forward To: More Muslim middle grade books!
Conclusion: Overall Other Words for Home was a beautiful read! I highly recommend it.
Beware spoilers ahead!
Trigger Warning(s): Islamophobia, xenophobia, racism, discrimination, mention of war and physical violence, vandalism, and harassment.
Rep: Jude is Syrian. Sarah is American-Syrian. Grace is Korean. Ben is Chinese. Omar is Somali. Layla is American-Lebanese. Michelle and Miles are American.
Disclaimer: Other Words for Home was read during The Theme Thieves November challenge Standalone.
I won this book in a giveaway hosted by the lovely Soknou! Click the link for her Twitter profile.
My Synopsis: Jude loves her family and home! She spends her time with her best friend Fatima and her brother Issa, watching old American movies and singing American songs.
Due to the rising tension and war occurring in Syria, Issa changes. Now all Issa talks about is change, and in his own way he's working towards a better future for Syria. The brother who would sing Whitney Houston with Jude is no more. This new Issa is reckless and rarely comes home.
As tensions and violence continue to rise in Syria, Jude is told by her mother that the two of them will be leaving for America. Though her brother and father won't be coming. Her father wants to stay with his shop and Issa wants to continue to fight for a better Syria.
Jude isn't pleased with this news. She would rather stay home with her family and those she is familiar with. Then she hears that her mother is pregnant and agrees to go.
Once in America Jude and her mother experience culture shock. And it is proving to be difficult to adjust to life in an another country. It doesn't help that Jude's cousin Sarah makes no attempts at a civil relationship.
Jude finds solace in her ESL class. It's comforting for Jude to know that she is not the only one experiencing culture shock. With the help and support from their ESL teacher, the group strive and grow in their new environments.
Along the way Jude discovers her courage and stands up for what she believes is right. Maybe America can also become her home.
Book Format: Others Words for Home is written in verse (first person) following Jude. It's divided into six parts with roman numerals (which serve as the chapter numbers) beginning per part. There are some flower illustrations on top of the roman numerals. Plus some Arab, a glossary, and an authors notes which lists websites.
Where I Heard About this Book: I saw this book on GR.
My Thoughts Before Reading: I was so excited to read this!
Though I was a little concerned with the writing style. I haven't read many books in verse and wondered whether I would like the writing style.
I am very happy to say that I adored Other Words for Home!
What I Liked: I loved the writing style! I found that the verse was an excellent way of telling the story. Other Words for Home was complex whilst still being light. This writing style also allowed the author to perfectly capture life as an immigrant.
Jude's relationship with her family was beautiful and heartbreaking. She is close to her parents and her brother Issa. Of course once her brother becomes involved in the conflict, their relationship drastically changes. The entire family breaks apart. It was really painful to read about these changes. Especially when Jude is told, that she and her mother would move to America without her father and brother.
Once in America Jude and her mother have to settle and adjust to their new lifestyle. It's quite hard for Jude as she deeply misses her father and brother. Though now she is forming new familial connections with her uncle Mazin, aunt Michelle and her cousin Sarah.
Jude absolutely adores her aunt Michelle! Aunt Michelle speaks slowly so that Jude can under her and does everything she can to make Jude and her mother's life comfortable. Her uncle Mazin is always working, so he doesn't have a significant relationship with Jude in the beginning. Her cousin Sarah doesn't like her. Sarah mocks everything that Jude is. From her accent, to people she talks to, to the way she dresses, etc.
Throughout the book Jude does begin to understand Sarah's plight. To two reconcile towards the end of the book. Uncle Mazin and Jude develop a close relationship. Jude is even able to talk to Issa (she talks to her father regularly) and is finally at peace. When Jude's baby sister is born the family feels complete.
I appreciated how the author wrote all the familial relationships. Even though Jude's family is broken apart in the beginning, they come back to together stronger. And with more people.
I loved reading about Jude's friendships! The ESL class was such a joy to read about. I loved each and every one of the students. It was amazing how much they connected to one-another. I also loved Layla! Jude meets Layla at a Middle Eastern restaurant and the two immediately hit it off. Miles was also such a sweet friend to Jude! All of the people in her life provide Jude with a strong support system.
I absolutely loved Jude! She was open minded, patient, and most of all brave. Jude's character arc is about confronting her fears and choosing to be brave in this new country. Jude auditions for the school play despite opposition from her family and some friends. She strives to fight for and stand up for her beliefs.
I related to a lot of her experiences. Especially when Jude starts to wear a hijab, and she sees how people react to her while she dons the hijab. She also makes it clear that wearing the hijab is her choice, and that even she who is wearing a hijab, also cares about women's rights.
My favourite part is that Other Words for Home is a realistic middle grade!
My Criticism(s): Absolutely nothing!
What I'm Looking Forward To: More Muslim middle grade books!
Conclusion: Overall Other Words for Home was a beautiful read! I highly recommend it.
Read
May 24, 2020
May 12, 2021
For a middle-grade this had SO MANY LESSONS and issues that were touched on.
Discussed in my April Wrap Up Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWZJ3...
In my opinion this book should be read in schools - awesome dialogue starter for issues that should be discussed.
I recommend this for younger and older readers alike.
Discussed in my April Wrap Up Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWZJ3...
In my opinion this book should be read in schools - awesome dialogue starter for issues that should be discussed.
I recommend this for younger and older readers alike.
October 10, 2019
I choked up so many times reading this. Other Words for Home is just so incredibly beautiful, filled with some of the most stunning verses I have ever read.
An effortless favourite read of 2019.
- Told entirely in verse, the story follows Jude, a Syrian girl who, with her mother, escapes to America when things at home in Syria are growing tense, violent, and uncertain.
- This is a story about many things, but chief among them are about immigrating, regrowing roots, finding yourself, and the gnawing ache of separation.
- Don't be fooled by the fact that it's a middle-grade; Other Words for Home explores tough topics like belonging and anti-Islam rhetoric, most of which are subtle, but with simple and heartfelt words.
- Jude was such a splendid and insightful narrator. I adored her; she was kind, confident, vulnerable, and is comfortable in the room that she makes. I loved that so much.
- The way complex and life-changing experiences are expressed in such simple yet astute ways? And how raw and vulnerable emotions are perfectly captured and conveyed in a few lines? Warga is an incredible wordsmith.
Trigger/content warning:
An effortless favourite read of 2019.
- Told entirely in verse, the story follows Jude, a Syrian girl who, with her mother, escapes to America when things at home in Syria are growing tense, violent, and uncertain.
- This is a story about many things, but chief among them are about immigrating, regrowing roots, finding yourself, and the gnawing ache of separation.
- Don't be fooled by the fact that it's a middle-grade; Other Words for Home explores tough topics like belonging and anti-Islam rhetoric, most of which are subtle, but with simple and heartfelt words.
- Jude was such a splendid and insightful narrator. I adored her; she was kind, confident, vulnerable, and is comfortable in the room that she makes. I loved that so much.
- The way complex and life-changing experiences are expressed in such simple yet astute ways? And how raw and vulnerable emotions are perfectly captured and conveyed in a few lines? Warga is an incredible wordsmith.
Trigger/content warning:
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