by Warren St. John
Hennepin County Library hardcover 300 pages
genre: non-fiction journalism
This book follows Luma Mufleh from Jordan to America, where she goes to college and decides to stay in America to exercise her independence and strength as an individual. Her parents essentially disown her and she struggles to support herself and forge a new life. Over the same chunk of time, many refugees are being resettled in Clarkston, Georgia (just outside of Atlanta). The influx of so many needy refugees into a predominantly white, small town environment has a tremendous impact on the town. Mufleh starts a free soccer team for boys who love to play the game.
The Fugees have their ups and downs as a team, with poverty and violence playing a role. St. John's reporting is wonderful, especially when he acknowledges how difficult it is to remain an impartial observer to the boys' lives and struggles.
Barb Green recommended this book to me. It's a wonderful story! There's a lot of food for thought here. . . .
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