Book Review of “Refugee” by Alan Gratz
“Refugee” by Alan Gratz, is a young adult novel published in 2017. The book weaves together three distinct storylines involving child refugees from different time periods and locations: Josef from Nazi Germany in 1938, Isabel from Cuba in 1994, and Mahmoud from Syria in 2015. Each of these children faces unique challenges and hardships as they seek safety and a better future. The book is structured with alternating chapters that follow the journeys of these three young protagonists.
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Part 1: Meet the Characters
The novel begins by introducing the three central characters:
- Josef: A Jewish boy escaping Nazi Germany on the MS St. Louis in 1939.
- Isabel: A Cuban girl seeking refuge in the United States in 1994.
- Mahmoud: A Syrian boy fleeing the war-torn city of Aleppo in 2015.
Each character’s backstory and unique circumstances are unveiled, setting the stage for their separate yet interconnected journeys.
Key Events:
- Josef’s experiences under the Nazi regime, including his family’s decision to leave Germany.
- Isabel’s life in Cuba and her family’s efforts to secure a spot on a boat to the United States.
- Mahmoud’s struggles in Aleppo and his family’s decision to embark on a perilous journey.
Part 2: A Perilous Voyage
The characters’ journeys take them across treacherous waters. Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud each face different challenges and dangers as they attempt to reach safety. Their experiences underscore the dangers and hardships that refugees endure while seeking a new home.
Key Events:
- Josef’s voyage on the MS St. Louis and the challenges faced by the passengers.
- Isabel’s family’s journey on a makeshift raft to the United States.
- Mahmoud’s family’s dangerous trek through Turkey and their attempts to cross the Mediterranean Sea.
Part 3: Unforgettable Encounters
During their journeys, the characters encounter individuals who play pivotal roles in their lives. These encounters range from acts of kindness and compassion to instances of cruelty and discrimination, highlighting the complexity of human behavior in the face of adversity.
Key Characters:
- Isabel’s encounter with Officer Jáuregui.
- Mahmoud’s interactions with other refugees and with Asif, a helpful guide.
- Josef’s connection with Ruth and her family on the MS St. Louis.
Part 4: The Struggle for Survival and Belonging
The characters’ journeys are marked by a profound struggle for survival and a longing for a place to call home. As they face adversity, they are fueled by hope, the desire for freedom, and the unwavering support of their families.
Key Themes:
- The resilience of the human spirit in the face of extreme hardship.
- The sense of belonging and the search for a place where they can live in safety and freedom.
- The strength of family bonds and the sacrifices made for the well-being of loved ones.
Part 5: A Journey of Self-Discovery
As the characters’ journeys progress, they undergo significant personal growth and self-discovery. Their experiences shape their identities and perspectives, and they learn valuable lessons about empathy, humanity, and the strength of the human spirit.
Key Lessons:
- The growth and maturation of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud as they confront adversity.
- The novel’s exploration of empathy and the understanding of the plight of other refugees.
- The resilience and determination of the characters in the face of overwhelming odds.
Conclusion
“Refugee” by Alan Gratz is a compelling and emotionally charged novel that serves as a powerful exploration of the refugee experience. By interweaving the stories of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud, the book underscores the universality of the refugee journey, transcending time and place. It invites readers to reflect on the human capacity for hope, resilience, and empathy while recognizing the challenges faced by those in search of safety and freedom. “Refugee” is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to raise awareness, inspire compassion, and encourage action in addressing one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time.
