The Turtle of Oman

This accessible, exquisite novel shines with gentle humor and explores themes of moving, family, nature, and immigration. It tells the story of Aref Al-Amri, who must say good-bye to everything and everyone he loves in his hometown of Muscat, Oman, as his family prepares to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan. Aref does not want to leave Oman, his elementary school, his friends, or his beloved grandfather, Siddi. Finally, his mother calls Siddi for help so that Aref will pack. But rather than pack, Aref and Siddi go on a series of adventures. At each stop, Siddi finds a small stone that he later slips into Aref's suitcase—mementos of home. Naomi Shihab Nye's warmth, attention to detail, and belief in the power of empathy and connection shines from every page.