Other Words for Home – Samantha Cronin’s Kid Lit Library

Other Words for Home

Author: Jasmine Warga

Published in 2019 by Balzer + Bray

Other Words for Home is a poignant and hopeful novel in verse from the perspective of twelve-year-old Jude who lives in Syria with her cherished mother, father, and older brother. As oppression consumes their beloved country and unrest makes its way closer to their home, the family is forced to make difficult decisions. Her brother Issa leaves to join the revolution in Aleppo, her father stays in their hometown to care for his shop, and Jude and her mother move to America to live with their relatives in the pursuit of safety.

The authentic, emotive poetry immerses readers into Jude’s thoughts and feelings as she navigates life in a new country. Starting at a new school, alongside her cousin Sarah who has not been a warm and welcoming presence, brings unique challenges as well as opportunities for Jude to make friends and consider auditioning for the upcoming school play, despite feeling like a girl like her could never have the spotlight. She remembers parting words from her brother, “Be brave,” and she balances making her way in this new place while remembering what she left behind.

Other Words for Home is a touching, poetic exploration of war, corruption, courage, home, family, friendship, and belonging. Jude’s lyrical telling of her refugee experience invites readers to cheer for her, laugh with her, cry with her, and celebrate her the whole way through.

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