Language: PG (11 swears 0 'f'); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (Bullying, threats)
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
APPEALS TO: SEVERAL
13yo Mo has recently moved to Texas with his father to live with his aunt and cousin. Mo's mom is working in Greece, and Mo's dad is, according to Mo, a monster. In reality, Mo's dad has paranoid schizophrenia, doesn't regularly take his medication, and is more than difficult to live with. Mo and his cousin Rayyan are the same age and in most of their classes together, and when Rayyan is a bully's target, Mo becomes his champion. But Rayyan doesn't want Mo interfering, and it's Mo who needs someone. Someone to interfere with his dad, as his dad needs help, and he won't help himself.
Reading The Strongest Heart, I couldn't help but wonder if there are kids at my school in a similar situation to Mo. This is a great book to show them they are not alone. The author grew up in a similar situation in Pakistan, where there were few mental illness resources, and has managed to write a book that is hopeful and supportive. I would like to have seen back matter with resources for readers to get help or learn more. Mo is complicated, mixed race, attends an Islamic center with his cousin.
Lisa Librarian
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