A verse novel that packs a punch

This is an evocative verse novel that intertwines characters through their shared experiences, showing the similarities and also differences that fundamentally make us human.

We are shown connecting perspectives from Sammy, an Eritrean teen who is fleeing for his own safety and Nat, an English teen who is mourning the loss of her mother.

Together, Mann cleverly and seamlessly switches perspectives between the characters and allows the reader to grow with them.

Perhaps the most poignant reminder this book has to offer is the reminder that we have all at some point been moving somewhere from one country to another, but depending on your race and nationality you have the privilege of being an ex-pat or the alternative of being a refugee.

TW: physical violence, racism, loss, bereavement of close family member, racial violence, suicide, homophobic language, extremism.

Read this if you enjoyed: Clap When You Land, The Beekeeper of Aleppo.