HOME AWAY FROM HOME

A girl’s initial hesitation about visiting her grandmother in Oman turns into a journey of reconnection with family and culture.

Nuha hasn’t seen Jadda, her grandmother, in three years. Mama insists Jadda “is excited to spend the summer with you.” Besides, “Oman is your home away from home.” Nuha isn’t convinced: “At least I’ll have you,” she whispers to her favorite doll, Mary, but in the travel rush, Nuha leaves Mary behind. Arriving “sticky and sweaty” in Oman to overwhelming unfamiliarity only confirms “this place was nothing like home.” Wise Jadda suggests exploring the nearby souk where Nuha might find a new doll. The lively market becomes a feast for Nuha’s senses: tasting delectable shawarma, wandering “perfumed alleys and glittery stalls,” appreciating personal henna paintings, drumming with street musicians, and gazing at the orange sun and blue sea—”so different and distant, but together they paint the most beautiful sky.” Walking home, Nuha even finds an Omani doll, naming her Maryam, a perfect companion for Mary. Jadda’s embrace assures Nuha she’s undoubtedly reached her home away from home. In an author’s note, Indian-born and Omani-raised Akbari urges readers to “look beyond the stereotypes and explore the everyday joy of Arab culture and family—real life that often doesn’t make the headlines.” Her unadorned, accessible text is notably enhanced by Kheiriyeh’s vibrant illustrations, which invite audiences to share Nuha’s wondrous discoveries.

Nurturing experiences transform a young girl’s discomfort into visceral delight—for protagonist and readers alike.