The Little Crooked Bookshelf

THE ELEVENTH TRADE

by Alyssa Hollingsworth

(This week's pick is from Cottager Melanie Roy whose greatest childhood fear was having to move away from all that was familiar to her.)

What it's all about...

Sami (age 12) and his grandfather (Baba) are Afghan refugees who have spent several years making their way through three countries and have now come to the United States. They are recovering from the devastation of losing their family in a bombing attack and quietly rebuilding their lives in a foreign place. When Baba's beloved rebab, an Afghan instrument that brings him much joy, is stolen, Sami feels responsible and vows to get it back. Sami finds it in a pawn shop but it costs $700 and he has no money. When a classmate shows interest in his keychain, Sami hatches a plan to make a series of trades to get the money for the rebab and bring back the spark in his Baba's eyes.

Why I love it...

The Eleventh Trade gave me a window into a refugee's experience and an opportunity to learn about Afghan culture.  I read this book months ago and yet I still find myself thinking about it. The deep love and strength of this grandfather and grandson burrowed inside my heart. 

Why will kids love it?

Readers will be able to relate to Sami's love of soccer, the friendships he makes, the love he feels for his grandfather and all of the emotions that go along with that love. 

Why will grown-ups love it?

I know grown-ups will be just as moved by this story as I was. I think it's timely to share a refugee experience and acknowledge the heartbreaking reasons people are leaving their countries for a safe place to rebuild their lives.  

Where to find/buy...

Indie Booksellers

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Or at a school or library near you!

About the Author

The Eleventh Trade was Alyssa Hollingsworth's debut novel which came out in 2018. Her second book, The Invisible Boy, comes out in the Fall of 2019. You can visit her at alyssahollingsworth.com and find her on Twitter @alyssa_holly.