Review By: Sara Tripp
Published: 2021
Genre(s): Middle Grade Fiction, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Audience: Grades 7–12
Content Warnings: Bullying, assault, miscarriage
Reviewer’s Note: “I like reading about different cultures.”
Goodreads Link: Unsettled
Summary:
Nurah and her family move from Karachi, Pakistan, to Peachtree City, Georgia, where she struggles to fit in while holding on to her cultural identity. Her accent, clothing, and faith set her apart from her peers, but swimming becomes her refuge and strength. As she navigates friendship, sibling rivalry, and self-acceptance, Nurah learns to balance the desire to belong with the courage to stand out.
Review:
Unsettled is a beautifully written novel in verse that captures the emotional journey of immigration, identity, and resilience. Reem Faruqi uses the verse format to convey emotion and nuance in an engaging, accessible way that even reluctant poetry readers will enjoy. The story’s portrayal of Muslim identity, family relationships, and the struggle to belong feels deeply authentic and relatable. Faruqi’s creative use of language—words cascading across the page—enhances the storytelling and mirrors Nurah’s internal journey. This book fosters empathy, understanding, and reflection, making it a perfect choice for classroom discussions about culture, belonging, and personal growth.
