The Turtle of Michigan - A Novel

“Celebrates the power of human connections.”—School Library Journal (starred review)

“Humorous, sensitive, and poignant.”—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

The stand-alone companion to National Book Award Finalist and beloved poet Naomi Shihab Nye’s The Turtle of Oman. The Turtle of Michigan is a deft and accessible novel that follows a young boy named Aref as he travels from Muscat, Oman, to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and adjusts to a new life and a new school in the United States. A wonderful pick for young middle grade readers and fans of Kevin Henkes, Erin Entrada Kelly, and Meg Medina.

Aref is excited for his journey from Oman to the United States, where he will reunite with his father in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Aref makes a friend on an airplane, wonders what Michigan will be like, and starts school in the United States. While he does miss his grandfather, his Sidi, Aref knows that his home in Oman will always be waiting for him.

Award-winning author Naomi Shihab Nye’s highly anticipated sequel to The Turtle of Oman explores immigration, family, and what it means to feel at home. Carrying a suitcase and memories of Oman, Aref experiences the excitement and nervousness that accompany moving to a new home and new school. The Turtle of Michigan is a great choice for reading aloud as well as a perfect read-alone for younger middle grade readers.

Illustrated in black-and-white throughout.

What happens when the boy who misses his home in Oman starts to find a new one in Michigan?

A Gentle Immigration Story: Follow Aref’s journey from Muscat, Oman, all the way to Ann Arbor, Michigan, as he discovers new customs, new foods, and a new way of life. A Heartwarming Family Story: Even though an ocean separates him from his beloved grandfather, Sidi, Aref discovers that their special connection can cross any distance. Starting a New School: From arts camp to the first day of class, join Aref as he navigates the nervousness and excitement of meeting new teachers and classmates in America. A Touching Coming-of-Age Story: A thoughtful middle grade chapter book perfect for young readers exploring themes of change, family, and discovering that you can have more than one home.