When Stars Are Scattered By: Victoria Jamieson & Omar Mohamed

Genre: Graphic Novel (based on real events)
Age Recommendation: Grade 6+

"When Stars Are Scattered" tells the story of Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, who spent most of their lives in the world's largest refugee camp, Dadaab, in Kenya.  Omar and Hassan were forced to flee their home in Somalia because of civil war.  The civil war left their father dead and the boys separated from their mother.  In the camp, Fatuma acts as their foster mother, helping to care for the pair.  This books provides the reader with a glimpse of life in a refugee camp and allows readers to see how hope and community can exist even in the most challenging circumstances.  I am not usually a reader of graphic novels, but really appreciated how the illustrations helped to enhance Omar's story.  I recommend this book to those who enjoy learning about real life events and how they impact people.