Home Is Not a Country

by Safia Elhillo
Home Is Not a Country cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 10102
  • Added: 2026-01-15
  • Updated: 2026-01-15
  • ISBN: 9780593177068
  • Publisher: Make Me a World
  • Published: 2021-02-02
  • Reviews: 3

Nima feels like an outsider in her suburban town and struggles to connect with her mother, who grew up in a different land. Her only solace is her childhood friend Haitham, until their bond is tested. As Nima grapples with her identity, she discovers the phantom of a life not chosen, embodied by the name Yasmeen. This poetic and introspective novel explores themes of belonging, cultural identity, and the fierce fight for one's place in the world. /n/n Written in verse, this novel is a powerful exploration of the complexities of growing up between cultures. Nima's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she navigates the challenges of feeling like an outsider in her own life. The story is a testament to the strength and resilience of young women finding their voice and their place in the world.

Reviews
SDSCU Child Lit · 2021-10-01
poignant 4.75

The book's use of magical realism adds a layer of enchantment to the story, beautifully tying together all the narrative threads. The emotional resonance and poetic language make it a standout read.

This reviewer was captivated by the book's use of magical realism, which adds a layer of enchantment to the story. The way the author weaves together different elements of the narrative is truly impressive. The emotional resonance and poetic language make it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates how the book explores complex themes with a unique and engaging style, making it a memorable experience. The climax, in particular, is a highlight that beautifully brings together all the threads of the story.

Quick quotes

    They are absolutely beautiful and poignant.

    The book uses magical realism for its climax, which wonderfully brings together all the threads of the story.

    The emotional resonance and poetic language make it a standout read.

Feminist Book Club · 2021-06-08
thought-provoking 4.00

The book explores the concept of home as people rather than a place, blending comfort and love with guilt and longing. The narrative's duality is both poignant and thought-provoking.

This novel really made me think about what home means. It's not just a physical place, but the people who make you feel safe and loved. The main character's journey is filled with emotional highs and lows, making it a deeply personal read. The way the author weaves together themes of identity, belonging, and family is truly compelling. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    For me, this book was about home not being a place, but people.

    There is also duality of experiencing comfort and love, but also guilt and longing.

    The narrative's exploration of these themes is both poignant and thought-provoking.

Jennifer R. Povey · Jennifer R. Povey · 2021-03-02
beautiful 4.50

The book is a beautiful blend of poetry and prose, showcasing the author's skill in both genres. The narrative's emotional depth and lyrical quality make it a standout read.

Jennifer really enjoyed this book, even though it wasn't something she would typically pick up. She highlights how Safia Elhillo's background as a poet shines through in the prose, making the story feel both intimate and expansive. The way the author handles complex themes like identity and belonging is truly remarkable. Jennifer appreciates how the book balances emotional depth with a unique narrative style, making it a memorable reading experience.

Quick quotes

    Safia Elhillo is a brilliant poet and this is not her first epic book.

    I enjoyed this book, although I probably wouldn't have picked it up.

    The narrative-poetry style of the book works perfectly for the story.

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