49 pages 1 hour read

Katherine Marsh

Nowhere Boy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Nowhere Boy by Katherine Marsh is a young adult novel set in Brussels, Belgium, in 2015-2016, alternating between the perspectives of Ahmed, a 14-year-old Syrian refugee, and Max, a 13-year-old American experiencing homesickness. When Max discovers Ahmed living in the basement of his home, they form a friendship, facing the climate of fear and threat of discovery, and Max helps Ahmed attend school and ultimately search for his father. This story explores themes of friendship and empathy against xenophobia and oppression. This novel contains depictions of war, discrimination, and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Katherine Marsh's Nowhere Boy impresses with its touching narrative, capturing the innocence of childhood amidst complex themes of migration and friendship. Readers praise its emotional depth and cultural relevance, though some note a predictable plot and lack of nuanced character development. Overall, it's a heartwarming, if somewhat straightforward, read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Nowhere Boy?

Young readers who relish heartfelt, suspenseful tales of resilience and friendship will cherish Nowhere Boy. Fans of Refugee by Alan Gratz or Wonder by R.J. Palacio will find its exploration of courage and humanity in the face of adversity similarly compelling. Ideal for those intrigued by global issues and personal triumphs.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Historical Fiction

Action / Adventure

Themes

Relationships: Family