This BRILLIANT novel-in-verse comes from Reem Faruqi, the author of Laila’s Lunchbox, one of my favorite picture books.

Unsettled is Nurah’s story, told in lyrical first person, of her move from Pakistan to Peachtree City, Georgia. Nurah embarks on her own journey, from wanting to fit in to with her new surroundings to wanting to stand out - and stand up - to show her family, friends, and community who she really is.

It is Nurah’s voice, her passions for art and swimming, and her empathy that make her a singular character. The pacing of the story matches her bloom, told in nine parts, each titled with a single word that gives the reader a tiny hint of what’s to come.

Middle graders will be drawn to the lyrical lines (“One the rice/swallows up the water/and looks like finger holes/are poked in the rice...”) and the supporting characters, some who support Nurah, and others who are obstacles on her journey. Everyone will be drawn to a book in which they see themselves, a book in which they can learn something, and/or a story that can grow their empathy.

Look out, Newbery committee!