Summary according to Goodreads:
Jude never thought she’d be leaving her beloved older brother and father behind, all the way across the ocean in Syria. But when things in her hometown start becoming volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives.
At first, everything in America seems too fast and too loud. The American movies that Jude has always loved haven’t quite prepared her for starting school in the US—and her new label of “Middle Eastern,” an identity she’s never known before. But this life also brings unexpected surprises—there are new friends, a whole new family, and a school musical that Jude might just try out for. Maybe America, too, is a place where Jude can be seen as she really is.
Review:
Hi all! We are back with another book review for you today! As an educator, I am always reflecting on how I can improve for my students to help them reach their fullest success. I want to make sure they see themselves where ever they look. When it comes to books, I am working on diversifying our classroom library. In my search, I came across Other Words for Home.
As you read from Jude's perspective, you feel yourself take on the emotions she is feeling through her lyrical narrative. As the reader, you are transported into her world and go through her experiences as if you were walking alongside her. There were so many times I just wanted to reach through the book, hug Jude, and reassure her that she isn't alone.
The book opens up your eyes to the reality of what life is like in Syria and how we across the ocean barely bat an eye. To read from the perspective of a young, Arab girl who is coming of age is telling enough on how we have been sheltered and conditioned to turn our heads while children in Syria live through it.
There is great character growth too. As you read, you watch Jude go from terrified to gaining confidence in a new world to coming terms that there can be many words for home than just one. That one never forgets where they are from even if they are not there.
You will not be able to put this book down, and you will be finding yourself rapidly turning the pages in order to continue absorbing Jude's story.
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