Author: Oliver Phommavanh
Publisher: Penguin Random House
School: Melbourne Girls Grammar
Reviewer: Rita
Genres: Community life, Fiction, Friendship, Middle Fiction, Refugees, Social groups
Category: Review
Tags: Fiction, Student Review
I was a city kid - until we moved to the middle of nowhere! At my tiny new school, I stuck out like my spiky hair. But being the odd one out was new for me, and all the attention was actually pretty cool. That was, until Kadir arrived. He and his family came from Syria and now they're in the limelight, even though that seems to be kryptonite to Kadir. If I could just…
I really enjoyed What about Thao? partly because it’s a very Australian theme. It’s about the daily life of a city boy moving to the country and trying to fit in. He likes being the odd boy out, but then another boy comes, and he has to deal with no longer being in the spotlight.
I liked the detail and the friendships. You’re never a true friend if you never have disagreements! If you enjoyed The Boy at the Back of the Class, you’ll love this book. Both books feature Syrian refugees, kids and fitting in.
I recommend this book to readers aged 8-11 and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed by Rita, Melbourne Girls Grammar.
