Refugee

Discuss the dictators who factor into each child’s story and the ways in which they make their presence known symbolically.

The theme of finding a better life is explored in each of the three refugee tales. How would each child define “a better life?”

Mahmoud constantly tries to remain invisible. Is this a good long-term strategy? Why or why not?

The motif of “tomorrow” recurs constantly in the novel. Explain what it means in the context of the refugee experience, and give some examples from each story where this tactic is employed.

Isabel defines herself by her music. Discuss how counting clave feeds into her identity crisis.

Josef’s father and mother offer two very different responses to their dire plight. Describe their coping mechanisms, and explain why neither response is constructive.

Bullies are seen in the novel under a variety of different guises. Discuss several examples from each child’s story.

Abuelito Padron’s story connects two of the refugee tales. Examine his role in both stories. Does his attitude toward refugees change over the course of the novel?