Yusuf Azeem is Not a Hero by Saadia Faruqi

How I Heard About It:
*As I perused various lists of the best of 2021 middle-grade novels, I kept seeing this title pop up.  After reading some incredible reviews, I decided to download the novel via Audible.  The last week was spent listening to a story about courage, acceptance, and fighting for what is right.  

What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*The year is 2021 and Yusuf is living in a small town in Texas.  The residents are remembering the events of 9/11 and commemorating the 20th anniversary.  

*His goal for the year is to be a member of the winning Robotics Team.

*After receiving some notes in his locker, he realizes someone wants him out of the school and town.  

*Some members of the small town, find themselves in a controversy over the building of a new mosque.  

*Yusuf must navigate some difficult paths, while using a journal of a family member that experienced the aftermath of 9/11.  

What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*The narration was top-notch, engaging, and thought-provoking.  

*The themes of acceptance, tolerance, and standing up for what is right was woven throughout each and every page.  

*Yusuf was a strong, independent, and heart-warming character.  

*I loved how the plot involved the present, the past, some serious issues, and a few light-hearted humorous moments.  

*As much as the story is fiction, the plot certainly did represent some real-life issues our world is facing on a daily basis.  

Who Should Read It:
*This 2021 middle-grade novel should be placed in all fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classrooms along with their school libraries.  The story is also perfect for middle-school readers.  In my opinion, the book would be ideal for a class read aloud because it would lead to some wonderful and meaningful class discussions.  Happy Reading!   


Rating:   5 STARS out of 5 Stars