When Stars Are Scattered

At the age of four, Omar Mohamed fled Somalia with his brother Hassan and spent the next fifteen years at Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya. When we come together to discuss Omar’s story, we will focus on themes of perseverance, community, refuge, and the value of education.

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About the Book

Omar and his nonverbal younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Separated from their mother when they fled war-torn Somalia, they now endure hunger, poverty, and endless days of waiting. Omar’s main priority is caring for Hassan, but when he’s offered a chance to attend school, he knows it might be his best chance of securing them both a better future. Trying to balance his responsibilities to his brother, his desire to get an education, and the daily struggles of life in Dadaab, Omar finds unexpected support from others in his community, learning that he doesn’t have to manage everything on his own.



Omar and Hasaan

Omar and Hassan

Dadaab Refugee Camp School

Dadaab Refugee Camp School

Why Read When Stars Are Scattered?

We chose When Stars are Scattered as the 2024 One Book, One Helix selection because of its themes of resilience, community, and refuge, which are motifs all freshmen will study in English, Social Studies, and Helix First classes. A National Book Award Finalist and New York Times bestseller, it was also the One Book, One San Diego Teen selection in 2021.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my book?

  • Unfortunately, no. All One Book, One Helix books belong to Helix Charter High School. You will be required to return your book at some point during your freshman year so that next year’s freshmen can also read it.

Can I write in my book?

  • Because these books belong to Helix and we would like to use them again, please do not write in your book. If you want to take notes, highlight quotes, or use other active reading strategies, please use the bookmark you received at Summer Registration, sticky notes, index cards, or other non-permanent devices to do so.

Will I be graded on When Stars Are Scattered?

  • Freshmen classes will include assignments, discussions, and other activities related to the book, with the assumption that all students have read When Stars Are Scattered. During the month of September, freshman Advisory classes will be focusing on the themes of the book and will use the book as a way of building community.

In which classes will I be expected to show my understanding of When Stars Are Scattered?

  • Helix First, Introduction to Social Studies, AP Human Geography, Ethnic Studies and Freshman English have all worked together to create curriculum and assignments specific to the One Book, One Helix text.

I am confused about an assignment or the book itself. Where can I ask questions?

Can I read the book online or find my own copy?

  • Of course you can! We encourage all students and parents to read the book in any form or medium they are comfortable with. Please know that you are still responsible for the hard copy the school has loaned you and will be expected to return it in good condition. Please reach out to Christina Potter (potter@helixcharter.net if you’re in need of an ebook, audiobook, or Spanish copy.

What if I have lost my copy of the When Stars are Scattered book?

  • Please contact the school librarian, Christina Potter (potter@helixcharter.net) in the case of a missing or lost book.

I want to talk to others about Omar's story. Will there be an opportunity to share my opinions and perspective?

  • There will be multiple opportunities throughout the year to discuss the specific and general themes addressed in When Stars Are Scattered. Please listen for announcements in the Fall!

Additional Resources


Below are some links to videos, articles, and blogs to help you better understand the book.



Resources:

Sanctuary Without End: The Refugees the World Forgot (CNN article about Dadaab Refugee Camp)

KCPE Examinations Kick-Off in Dadaab camps (UNHCR article about students preparing for national exams)

Inside Dadaab: life in one of the world’s largest refugee camps (video)

Refugee Strong (Omar’s organization to support refugees)