Summary
Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. The boys’ father was killed in Somalia’s civil war, prompting them to flee on foot when separated from their mother. Life is hard in the camp: never enough food, achingly dull, and without access to the medical care Omar knows his nonverbal brother needs. When Omar can go to school in America, he knows it might be a chance for a better future. They have much hope in this new land.
Theme(s):
Balancing Belief in Dreams, Faith, and Hard Work
Personal Response
When Stars Are Scattered is an intimate, meaningful, and unforgettable look at the lives of these young refugees, which will help young people better understand the challenging way of life millions of displaced people worldwide endure for years and years. Through Omar’s journey and those of his friends and family members, readers get a close, powerful view of the trauma and uncertainty of life as a refugee and the faith, love, and support from unexpected quarters that get people through it.
Teaching Ideas
This book can be integrated into comprehension, writing, grammar, and social-emotional learning lessons. Students can identify the character traits of the main characters. They can find the main idea and supporting details. Also, students can discuss the plot of the story.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 06, Grade 07
