Jude's cousin Sarah, however, is aloof and unfriendly. She does her best to make Jude and her mother feel at home. Aunt Michelle is very loving and welcoming. Jude and her mother go to live in a historic section of Cincinnati called Clifton with their Uncle Mazin, his American wife Michelle, and their daughter Sarah. Their father stays behind to maintain the store and Issa stays to help in the war. Because of fears for their safety, the family makes the difficult decision to have Jude and her mother flee to America to live with Jude's mother's brother, Uncle Mazin. Jude's brother Issa is staunchly on the side of the rebels dreaming of a democracy instead of the repressive regime under Assad. Jude's family is overjoyed to learn that their mother is pregnant! However, everything changes when the Syrian Civil War brings violence and unrest. Jude's older brother Issa has always been there for her as a playmate, singing pop songs together, and also as a role model with strong convictions.

Jude's father owns a shop where she visits daily and sneaks chips knowing that he adores having her visit. She and her best friend Fatima love to act out songs and scenes from their favorite American movies and Jude dreams of becoming an actor one day. Her pretty coastal town is a popular tourist destination. Jude loves living by the sea in Syria.

What are some examples of kindness and compassion shown in the novel?.

What are some examples of islamophobia and bigotry that the characters experience in the novel?.What are some of the themes present in the novel and what lessons does the author try to impart to the reader?.What are some of the symbols and motifs present in the novel? How does the symbolism help you better understand the characters and their motivations?.Who are the main characters in Other Words for Home and what challenges do they face?.Essential Questions for Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga

Other words for home book review