Book Review Summary: Wishing Upon the Same Stars

Introduction

"Wishing Upon the Same Stars" is a captivating coming-of-age middle grade debut novel by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman. The story follows the journey of Yasmeen Khoury, an Arab American girl who moves with her family to San Antonio, Texas. As she navigates through the unfamiliar landscape, Yasmeen grapples with finding friendship and understanding her identity. This heartwarming novel explores themes of diversity, prejudice, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

About Jacquetta Nammar Feldman

Jacquetta Nammar Feldman is a talented author who loves to write poetry and stories of all kinds. With a background in advertising and a candidate for a master's degree in Writing for Children and Young Adults, she brings a unique perspective to her writing. Her ability to delve into sensitive topics with sensitivity and insight makes her a promising new voice in children's literature.

Analysis of Views

1. Sensitive handling of difficult issues: Readers praise the author's approach to addressing complex themes such as racism, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the Holocaust. The way these issues are presented is commended for being sensitive and insightful, providing young readers with a thought-provoking and educational experience.

2. Engaging characters: The characters in the story are described as relatable, sympathetic, and likable. Yasmeen's journey as she tries to find her place in a new environment resonates with readers, making it easy for them to empathize with her struggles and triumphs. The development of her friendship with Ayelet adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

3. Insightful exploration of identity: The novel delves into Yasmeen's journey of self-discovery as she grapples with her cultural identity and her sense of belonging. Readers appreciate how the author portrays the challenges faced by Arab Americans in a predominantly non-Arab community, providing a nuanced understanding of the immigrant experience.

4. Powerful themes: Themes such as friendship, diversity, and overcoming differences are explored in a compelling way. The novel touches on important topics such as prejudice, stereotypes, and the impact of history on personal relationships. Readers find these themes to be thought-provoking and relevant to contemporary society.

5. Solid writing and storytelling: The writing in "Wishing Upon the Same Stars" is praised for its engaging prose and compelling plot. Readers appreciate the author's ability to craft a heartfelt and powerful narrative that keeps them invested in Yasmeen's story from beginning to end.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Addressing important issues: The book's handling of sensitive topics such as racism, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the Holocaust makes it a valuable addition to the middle grade reading list. It provides young readers with an opportunity to learn about these complex issues in an accessible and age-appropriate manner.

2. Engaging characters: Yasmeen's relatable character and her journey resonate with readers, making it easy for them to connect with her struggles and triumphs. The development of her friendship with Ayelet adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more compelling for readers.

3. Insightful exploration of identity: The novel offers a nuanced portrayal of cultural identity and the challenges faced by Arab Americans in a predominantly non-Arab community. It provides readers with an understanding of the immigrant experience and the importance of embracing one's cultural heritage.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Lack of representation: Some readers feel that the portrayal of Arab American characters is not fully representative or accurately reflective of their experiences. They express disappointment that Yasmeen's father's anti-Israel views are presented without any context or counterarguments, which they feel could have added depth to the narrative.

2. Slow pacing: A few readers find that the pacing of the book is slow during certain parts, particularly in the middle section where Yasmeen navigates her friendships with Waverly, Hillary, and Ayelet. They suggest that this section could have been streamlined for a more engaging reading experience.

Conclusion

"Wishing Upon the Same Stars" by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman is a poignant coming-of-age middle grade novel that tackles complex issues such as diversity, prejudice, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with sensitivity and insight. Through relatable characters, engaging prose, and compelling themes, the book offers readers an opportunity to explore their own identities while learning about others in a thought-provoking narrative. While some readers express concerns about representation and pacing, overall, "Wishing Upon the Same Stars" is recommended for its ability to educate and entertain young readers while promoting empathy and understanding in a diverse world.