When Stars are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson

 

Bibliography

Jamieson, V., & Mohamed, O. (2020). When stars are scattered. Dial Books for Children. 

ISBN 9780525553915

Plot Summary

Omar and Hassan live in a refugee camp called Dadaab. Not having their parents, food, and other daily essentials, Omar (the oldest) is forced to take care of his younger brother who is disabled. One day, Omar is compelled to decide on whether or not to attend school. Knowing that this could lead to more opportunities and a better life for himself and his brother, Omar struggles because it would mean leaving his brother every day. Taking care of his younger brother is so important because that was the last thing he heard his mother say to him. Making the right decision proves to be the hardest but most rewarding decision Omar makes. 

Critical Analysis

In this heartbreaking story told through graphic novel format, author Victoria Jamieson bases the story on memories as told by a refugee from Somalia named Omar Mohamed. Through the use of blended text and visual format, readers will experience a multitude of emotions as they travel through the childhood of Omar and Hassan while living in the refugee camp Dadaab. Sorrow, laughter, anger, and hope all emerge as Hassan spends his life waiting. Readers will learn to never give up, as Omar’s trials and tribulations eventually lead to love, hope, and dreams coming true. 

Review Excerpt(s)

"Jamieson's characteristically endearing art, warmly colored by Geddy, perfectly complements Omar's story, conjuring memorable and sympathetic characters who will stay with readers long after they close the book . . . This engaging, heartwarming story does everything one can ask of a book, and then some.” —Kirkus

"With this sensitive and poignant tale, Jamieson and Mohamed express the power of the human spirit to persevere." —School Library Journal

"Tragedy is certainly present throughout the story, yet Mohamed and Jamieson’s focus on deep familial love and education works to subvert many refugee stereotypes." —Horn Book

YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers

Connections

For additional activities related to the book:

• Maryam’s poem at the end of When Stars are Scattered is powerful. It pulls together many of the themes taught in the story and gives the book its title. Discuss the meaning of the poem. What does the poem tell you about Maryam’s voice? Have students write their own poems following Maryam’s example.
• Have students compare and contrast Maryam’s poem to Michael’s lesson in Chapter 8.
• Have students create a chapter to add to the end of When the Stars are Scattered.

Other recommended books if you liked this one:

• Illegal: A Graphic Novel by Eoin Colfer
• Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani
• Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga