Play Book Tag discussion

This book is made up of two stories in different time frames. It follows modern day Nour who was born in America, but returns to her mother’s homeland of Syria after the death of her father when she is twelve years old. It also has a past story of Rawiya, a young women from centuries ago who leaves her home and ends up working with a famous map maker. The girls follow similar paths while trying to be safe.

Nour grows during her journey. Her home in Syria is destroyed while the country is being bombed. She along with her mother and sisters become refugees and try it make it out of Syria. They face many life threatening obstacles and become separated. They want to cross the borders of various countries to reach Nour’s uncle, but it is a dangerous trip. Rawiya also faces rebellions, magical threats and hides that she is a girl.

This first time author captures the life of a refugee very well. Their struggles, dangers and many obstacles are portrayed. It is interesting that Nour and her family left the United States to return to Syria, instead of entering America from Syria as refugee. Also it shows a person’s family history is important despite where they are born. Both Nour and Rawiya are stronger than they initially thought and what is important to them is family. The book portrays life a refugee well and is very relevant to what is going on in the world today.

Beautifully done review!