Welcome to Nowhere

Set during the ongoing civil war in Syria, twelve-year-old Omar is resourceful and resilient in the face of violence, frightening situations, the threat of bombings, and imminent death—a reality for the children and families in other parts of the world affected by war. The rich characterizations and experiences of Omar and his family members allow readers to relate to and appreciate the diversities of other cultures. Suitable for intermediate students, this fictional novel tells a story based on the real experiences the author heard in Jordanian refugee camps. The story of a family who must leave their home behind and risk everything to escape their war-torn country will present opportunities to explore the harrowing effects of civil war on children around the world; discussions about how these situations can affect families may be broached, in particular in communities that have taken in refugees.