Written by Nazneen Akbari
Illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh
Published by Barefoot Books
Mom's Review
As someone who grew up a half continent away from her grandparents, and as the parent of someone growing up a half continent away from one set of grandparents and a continent away from another set, Home Away from Home resonates with me. Little Nuha hasn't seen her Jadda in years and is going to spend part of her summer with Jadda in Oman. Initial mixed feelings and ultimate fun validate children's feelings about leaving home, even when it is to visit someone who loves them unconditionally. The soft illustrations captivate the audience's eye while the grandmother and granddaughter capture the heart. This ostensibly simple story reveals the value in welcoming new experiences and finding that you may fit in where you didn't expect. Back matter offers further detail on Nuha's dolls, the real market they visited, henna, and traditional Omani garb, plus an Arabic/English glossary. Home Away from Home is an excellent book for kids who live apart from their extended families.
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