Join author Victoria Jamieson as she discusses her graphic novel, When Stars Are Scattered, nominated for the National Book Award.
When Stars Are Scattered tells the story of Omar Mohamed's life as a Somali refugee in a crowded Kenyan refugee camp, where he was responsible for his younger, non-verbal brother because they had been separated from their mother. Ultimately they were able to move to the United States, but Omar spent the bulk of his childhood in that camp.
The Kirkus review states: “Through Omar’s journey, and those of his friends and family members, readers get a close, powerful view of the trauma and uncertainty that attend life as a refugee as well as the faith, love and support from unexpected quarters that get people through it. Jamieson’s characteristically endearing art, warmly colored by Geddy, perfectly complements Omar’s story, conjuring memorable and sympathetic characters who will stay with readers long after they close the book. Photographs of the brothers and an afterward provide historical context; Mohamed and Jamieson each contribute an author’s note. This engaging, heartwarming story does everything one can ask of a book and then some.”
Community Partner: UN Association Southwest Connecticut Chapter and made possible with a grant from CT Humanities.