Awards
- Nominated for Maine Library Association Lupine Award - Juvenile/Young Adult 2020
Overview
Adapted from the adult memoir, this gripping and acclaimed story follows one boy's journey into young adulthood, against the backdrop of civil war and his ultimate immigration to America in search of a better life. Abdi Nor Iftin grew up amidst a blend of cultures, far from the United States. At home in Somalia, his mother entertained him with vivid folktales and bold stories detailing her rural, nomadic upbrinding. As he grew older, he spent his days following his father, a basketball player, through the bustling streets of the capital city of Mogadishu. But when the threat of civil war reached Abdi's doorstep, his family was forced to flee to safety. Through the turbulent years of war, young Abdi found solace in popular American music and films. Nicknamed Abdi the American, he developed a proficiency for English that connected him--and his story--with news outlets and radio shows, and eventually gave him a shot at winning the annual U.S. visa lottery. Abdi shares every part of his journey, and his courageous account reminds readers that everyone deserves the chance to build a brighter future for themselves. FOUR STARRED REVIEWS!
Full Product Details
Author: Abdi Nor Iftin
Publisher: Random House USA Inc
Imprint: Ember
Dimensions:
Width: 14.00cm
, Height: 1.40cm
, Length: 20.80cm
Weight: 0.215kg
ISBN: 9781984897138
ISBN 10: 1984897136
Pages: 272
Publication Date: 10 August 2021
Recommended Age: From 12 years
Audience:
Young adult
,
Teenage / Young adult
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: In Print
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Reviews
Devastating, inspiring, and ultimately hopeful. --SLJ, starred review An absolutely stunning survival story that is beautifully and vividly written. . . . Simply a terrific read. --Booklist, starred review This remarkable, nuanced story facilitates a deeper understanding of immigration today. A triumphant memoir that offers hope for Somalia's and, indeed, America's futures. --Kirkus Reviews, starred review Young Abdi is a tremendously appealing figure in his desire to enjoy music and movies and find an alternative to the only choices Somalia offers him. . . . The narrative is genuinely suspenseful. --The Bulletin, starred review
Author Information
Abdi Nor Iftin lives in Maine. He is studying political science at Boston College, and he plays soccer every Saturday in a melting-pot league of Americans and immigrants from around the world.
