The middle grade novel No Place Like Home by James Bird (Feiwel & Friends, August 2023) is a heartfelt tale of resilience and the power of cultural identity. Twelve-year-old Ojibwe boy Opin faces the increasing discomfort of homelessness as he and his mother and brother make their way to Los Angeles to be with family. Using the facts he knows from American history about past treatment of Native Americans, Opin adapts a fantastical look of life that transforms his world into a game of “us” versus the “Calvary,” finding commonalities between his trials and those early Native Americans may have faced. Throughout his transformative journey, Opin evolves from a timid child to a determined individual who refuses to surrender in his pursuit of hope, even as he faces and unknown future.
When I began reading, I had the impression that Opin was possibly “slow” since he did not seem to see his situation clearly. His first-person account of his experience seemed disconnected from the actual events of his homelessness. As his story progressed, I came to see that he was an incredibly smart child. As a part of this, his way of seeing the world, through the lens of a type of Native American survival game, helped protect him from dangerous and uncomfortable realities. While Opin’s brother, Emjay, seemed only to add to their problems, Opin’s attempts to fit him into his narrative gives more insight into these parallel perspectives: reality versus life as a game.
Bird’s portrayal of Opin’s mother, Inde, is also particularly noteworthy as an example of Native American cultural identity. Inde’s parents had endured oppression, forced into residential schools that stripped them of their language and traditions. Inde takes joy in learning her tribal language, listening to Native music, and rejoicing that she is unique. As Opin strives to find his place in the world as an Ojibwe with his mother’s help, I couldn’t help but be moved by the generational journey of reclaiming cultural roots.
No Place Like Home invites readers to reflect on the often-overlooked issue of homelessness, especially among marginalized communities. The story helped me reflect on the empathy, understanding, and support these individuals so desperately need. James Bird skillfully weaves together themes of homelessness, Native American culture identity, and family bonds, creating a story that captivates young readers. It would be difficult to forget Opin’s life perspective and unique voice.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance review copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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