Other Words for Home
Ratings38
Average rating4.5
“Hoping, I'm starting to think, might be the bravest thing a person can do.”
I had to take a few days before being able to formulate a review for this wonderful book. I stumbled upon it on the list LAPL Arab American Heritage Month selection, and am so thankful I picked it.
One of the strengths of this novel is its ability to balance the light and the dark, the joyful and the sorrowful. Warga infuses the story with moments of humor, love, and hope, making it a heartwarming and uplifting read despite the tough subject matter.
Even more so for a reader like me, who is from the region, familiar with some of these feelings, having experienced them to a certain degree as an adult trying to find my place in the USA.
The characters are multidimensional and relatable, and Jude's voice is authentic and endearing. The author tackles such heavy themes: racism, xenophobia, and the Syrian refugee crisis with sensitivity and nuance. It's a powerful reminder that home is not just a physical place, but a sense of self, a feeling of connection, and a community that accepts you for who you are.
“I search every day for a clue about why I deserve to be here in Aunt Michelle's kitchen, safe and fed. When so many others just like me are not. Lucky. I am learning how to say it over and over again in English. I am learning how it tastes— sweet with promise and bitter with responsibility.”
tw: war, Islamophobia, hate crime.
i don't even know how to begin to describe my love for this book. this story and characters that jasmine warga has created. it was equally heartbreaking and wholesome. it's perfect for people (especially kids) of all ages to read.
tw: war, Islamophobia, hate crime.
i don't even know how to begin to describe my love for this book. this story and characters that jasmine warga has created. it was equally heartbreaking and wholesome. it's perfect for people (especially kids) of all ages to read.
I adored so much of this novel in verse. Compassionate and hopeful without shying away from tough truths. I felt so connected to Jude despite having precious little in common. I think this book has the power to really change people's minds in a positive way, whether they relate to the main character or see her in their neighbors.