When Stars Are Scattered

What do our readers think of When Stars Are Scattered? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children often find the story moving, memorable and inspiring, especially its focus on family, friendship, courage and hope.

What does the Pageticker team say about When Stars Are Scattered?

When Stars Are Scattered is a powerful graphic memoir about family, hope and the tough choices children sometimes have to make. Victoria Jamieson's warm, expressive artwork brings Omar's world to life, while Omar Mohamed's experiences give the story honesty and heart. It is moving, occasionally heartbreaking and best suited to confident readers who can handle themes of war, loss and life in a refugee camp.

Genres

What is When Stars Are Scattered about?

Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Life is hard there: never enough food, achingly dull, and without access to the medical care Omar knows his nonverbal brother needs. So, when Omar has the opportunity to go to school, he knows it might be a chance to change their future... but it would also mean leaving his brother, the only family member he has left, every day.

About the author

Victoria Jamieson is a talented author and illustrator from America who loves creating graphic novels for children. She is best known for her popular book 'Roller Girl', which follows a girl's adventures in a roller derby team. Victoria enjoys drawing and telling stories that inspire children to be brave, creative, and kind to others.

Discussion ideas around When Stars Are Scattered

Family and responsibility: Omar feels responsible for Hassan, but he also wants to go to school. How does he balance caring for his brother with looking after his own future?

Hope and waiting: What helps Omar and the people around him keep hoping, even when their lives in the camp feel stuck?

Community: How do friends, neighbours and other members of the camp help Omar and Hassan? What makes a place feel like home?

Education: Why is school so important to Omar? How might education change the choices available to him?

Seeing beyond stereotypes: What does the book show about the everyday lives, friendships and dreams of people living in a refugee camp?