When Stars are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson

This graphic novel tells the true story of Omar and his younger brother Hassan. They fled from Somalia and have spent most of their loves in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Hassan is nonverbal and has seizures. Omar starts school at the camp because he wants to be able to change their future, as they were separated from their mom when they fled, and their father was killed. Omar hopes to be relocated to America.

Ages: 10-12, but teens could benefit from and enjoy as well

The story of Omar and Hassan immerses readers in a refugee camp, offering a firsthand look at the daily challenges faced by its residents. It doesn’t sugarcoat the hardships the boys endure or the heartache they experience. It’s crucial for our children to look beyond their own country and understand the realities of life in other parts of the world. The story highlights not only the physical challenges they face but also the mental ones, as boredom and a sense of purposelessness are constant struggles.

Because most of the refugees are Somali, there are many Islamic elements spoken of. All of the women and girls are depicted in chadors, there are calls to pray five times a day, Ramadan and Eid are explained, boys study the Quran, and girls are given in marriage. God is referenced many times, as Omar prays frequently, but obviously he is praying to Allah.

Overall, I think this book gives children in the West a needed look into the lives of people in another part of the world. It gives them empathy for other’s physical needs but also for their spiritual needs. With a child who is ready and able to process, this could be an impactful book. I would be sure to have thoughtful conversations with them about Islam and the war in Somalia to flesh out these topics a bit more and from a Biblical worldview.

Language:

Jerk, idiot, stupid, and shut up are used.

There is some name calling and putting others down.

Questionable Behaviors:

Some of the men chew khat, which is a plant that gives them a high.

The women are depicted as gossiping.

Violence:

Boys fight each other at the refugee camp.

It’s implied that a boy is hit by his father.

Omar recounts when is father is killed in Somalia. The illustrations do not depict the murder.

It is mentioned that a refugee killed himself.

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