Book review - Tagging Freedom

Title: Tagging Freedom

Author: Rhonda Roumani

Genre: realistic fiction

Similar books: Escape from Aleppo by N. H. Senzai

                      Wishing Upon the Same Stars by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman

Rating:

 

well written with an important message

Summary (provided by publisher): Kareem Haddad of Damascus, Syria, never dreamed of becoming a graffiti artist. But when a group of boys from another town tag subversive slogans outside their school, and another boy is killed while in custody, Kareem and his friends are inspired to start secretly tag messages of freedom around their city.
Meanwhile, in the United States, his cousin, Samira, has been trying to make her own mark. Anxious to fit in at school, she joins the Spirit Squad where her natural artistic ability attracts the attention of the popular leader. Then Kareem is sent to live with Sam’s family, and their worlds collide. As graffitied messages appear around town and all eyes turn to Kareem, Sam must make a choice: does she shy away to protect her new social status, or does she stand with her cousin? 

My opinion: Most middle grade fiction actually centers on a single message: how important is it to fit in? When you add in characters from other cultures, especially refugees, this question escalates. This novel adds some nuance by doing more than just presenting us with the culture clash. Its asking good questions about who has the right to be involved in a situation, the difference between being a good friend and being completely honest, and where our loyalties lie. With a timely topic its a good book to get kids thinking more globally as well.

Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley