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“This unusual novel, written in the form of a diary, tells the story of four years in the life of a Damascene boy… This multifaceted work is at once a glimpse into a different culture, a plea for the right to free speech and a highly readable tale, as full of fun as it is of melancholy.”
—Publishers Weekly

A Hand Full of Stars

Written by Rafik Schami and Rika Lesser (Translator)
Published by Interlink Publishing Group, Incorporated

Amid the turmoil of modern Damascus, one teenage boy finds his political voice in a message of rebellion that echoes throughout Syria and as far away as Western Europe. Inspired by his dearest friend, old Uncle Salim, he begins a journal to record his thoughts and impressions of family, friends, life at school, and his growing feelings for his girlfriend, Nadia. Soon the hidden diary becomes more than just a way to remember his daily adventures; on its pages he explores his frustration with the government injustices he witnesses. His courage and ingenuity finally find an outlet when he and his friends begin a subversive underground newspaper. Warmed by a fine sense of humor, this novel is at once a moving love story and a passionate testimony to the difficult and committed actions being taken by young people around the world.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: May 2012
Available As: Paperback, eBook
Young Adult, Age 12 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , ,

Setting: Syria (Damascus)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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