Teaching Other Words for Home

Written in the voice of Jude, a 7th grader and Syrian refugee, this novel in verse follows Jude’s journey with her pregnant mother from a small town in Syria to the United States. As Jude leaves everything she has known and acclimates to a new life in Ohio, the reader is compelled to ponder identity, belonging, and what defines “home.” The novel explores how we can embrace and celebrate differences, open our minds to view life from other perspectives, and be proud of our own identities.

The themes of this novel align with Facing History’s Borders & Belonging ELA Collection. We’ve created this planning guide to support your school community in small-group, whole-class, or schoolwide reading and discussion. The discussion questions are designed to spark critical thinking and conversations around issues of identity, agency, migration, and belonging.

Learn about using this title in an All Community Read on the theme of Borders & Belonging.