Article Title
Keywords
Outstanding, Katherine Marsh, Intermediate, Young Adult, Refugee, Syria, Belgium, Boy, Middle School, Friendship, Loyalty
Document Type
Book Review
Abstract
After fleeing a life of suffering and tragedy in war-torn Syria, fourteen-year-old Ahmed escapes to Belgium, losing his father, the only surviving member of his family, along the way. With nowhere to turn, Ahmed finds himself one night hiding in the wine cellar of a house occupied by an American family. Sick, desperate, and hopeless, Ahmed tells himself he will only stay long enough to recover, but then he is discovered by thirteen-year-old Max, the youngest resident of the house. Max is initially frightened, but he has compassion on Ahmed and soon realizes he wants to help him. With the aid of some friends, Max crafts a way to enroll Ahmed in his school, battling racial prejudices and enduring terror attacks along the way. Together, Ahmed and Max find ways to defy the odds, learning from each other that there is always reason for hope, kindness, and courage.
BYU ScholarsArchive Citation
Nelson, Taylor
(2018)
"Nowhere Boy,"
Children's Book and Media Review: Vol. 39:
Iss.
10, Article 23.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cbmr/vol39/iss10/23