What a heartwarming story 🥹 the illustrations are beautiful and this would be a perfect story to read to your littles together. Loved it!

Nuha is nervous about visiting Oman for the first time, but she's glad to be able to bring her favorite doll, Mary. When Mary gets left behind, however, Nuha must find other ways to feel comfortable in her family's homeland. Luckily, her Jadda (grandmother) gently encourages her to get to know Oman and all it has to offer, and before long, Nuha finds a lot to love about her home away from home--including a new Omani doll to introduce to Mary.

This sweet picture book offers a beautiful glimpse of daily life in Oman and joyfully affirms Arabic culture and identity. The metaphor of Nuha's dolls representing both sides of her identity works successfully, and back matter includes a map, glossary, and additional information about key moments in the story. Kheiriyeh's illustrations, rendered in oil, chalk, and ink, are soft, warm, and lovingly detailed. Notes from both the author and illustrator offer insight into their own backgrounds and connections to the Arab world.

Home Away from Home is a lovely, heartfelt contemporary novel that masterfully captures the "fish out of water" experience. Nazneen Akbari delivers a story that feels like a warm hug, perfect for readers who enjoy themes of identity, belonging, and finding family in unexpected places.

The Highlights:
Relatable Journey: The protagonist’s move and her struggle to bridge the gap between her heritage and her new environment are portrayed with such sincerity. You really feel her pangs of homesickness.

Vivid Descriptions: Whether it’s the evocative descriptions of food or the nuances of cultural traditions, Akbari makes the setting come alive. I felt like I was right there in the kitchen with the characters.

Gentle Pacing: The story unfolds at a steady, thoughtful pace that allows for genuine character growth rather than rushing toward a forced conclusion.

Why it’s a 4-star read:
While the emotional beats are spot on, the plot is relatively quiet and low-stakes. If you prefer high-octane drama, this might feel a bit slow.

However, for those looking for a character-driven story about the immigrant experience and the meaning of "home," it’s a beautiful choice.
It’s a poignant debut that leaves you reflecting on your own roots long after the final page.

Book 016 of 365 ~ 2026

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Such a lovely story and great way to learn about other cultures.

I received a complimentary copy of the ebook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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I loved this sweet book. This would be a wonderful book for any child visiting far away family or family in another country. The story is about a little girl who spends the summer with her grandmother that she rarely visits because she lives in another country.

This was a sweet story with lovely illustrations. It was fun to follow Nuha on her journey to Oman and learn a bit about Arab culture.