Description

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Adapted from the adult memoir, this gripping and acclaimed story follows one boy's journey into young adulthood, against the backdrop of civil war and his ultimate immigration to America, in search of a better life.

In Somalia, Abdi Nor Iftin grew up amidst a blend of cultures. His mother entertained him with vivid folktales and bold stories about her rural, nomadic upbrinding. As he grew older, he spent his days following his father, a basketball player, through the bustling street of the capital city of Mogadishu.

But when the threat of civil war reached Abdi's doorstep, his family was forced to flee to safety. Through the turbulent years of war, young Abdi found solace in popular American music and films. Nicknamed Abdi the American, he developed a proficiency for English that connected him--and his story--with news outlets and radio shows, and eventually gave him a shot at winning the annual U.S. visa lottery.

Abdi shares every part of his journey, and his courageous account reminds readers that everyone deserves the chance to build a brighter future for themselves.
 
Four Starred Reviews!
 
" . . . devastating, inspiring, and ultimately hopeful." —SLJ, Starred Review
 
"An absolutely stunning survival story . . ." —Booklist, Starred Review
 
". . .facilitates a deeper understanding of immigration today." —Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
 
" . . . genuinely suspenseful." —Bulletin, Starred Review

About the Author

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Abdi Nor Iftin lives in Maine. He is studying political science at Boston College, and he plays soccer every Saturday in a melting-pot league of Americans and immigrants from around the world.

Praise For…

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"Devastating, inspiring, and ultimately hopeful." —SLJ, starred review

"An absolutely stunning survival story that is beautifully and vividly written. . . . Simply a terrific read." —Booklist, starred review

"This remarkable, nuanced story facilitates a deeper understanding of immigration today. A triumphant memoir that offers hope for Somalia's and, indeed, America's futures." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Young Abdi is a tremendously appealing figure in his desire to enjoy music and movies and find an alternative to the only choices Somalia offers him. . . . The narrative is genuinely suspenseful." —The Bulletin, starred review