Naomi Shihab Nye's The Turtle of Oman receives praise for its evocative prose and rich cultural setting, immersing readers in the beauty of Oman. The protagonist’s emotional journey of moving away resonates with both children and adults. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the plot thin. Despite this, the novel’s lyrical quality and heartfelt themes make it a rewarding read.

A reader who would enjoy The Turtle of Oman by Naomi Shihab Nye is typically a middle-grader who appreciates multicultural themes, gentle storytelling, and evocative prose. Fans of Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai or Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will find this book equally compelling.

The Turtle of Oman by Naomi Shihab Nye follows Aref Al-Amri in Muscat, Oman, as he prepares for a move to the United States. With guidance from his grandfather Sidi, Aref navigates the emotional challenges of leaving his home, learning to cherish memories and anticipate new adventures. He bids farewell to friends and treasures special moments with his grandfather, ultimately embracing the upcoming change.

Contemplative / Nostalgic / Melancholic / Heartwarming

- The Turtle of Oman is written by Naomi Shihab Nye, an internationally acclaimed poet and author who often draws on her Palestinian-American heritage in her work.
- Set in the Middle East, the novel explores diverse cultures, landscapes, and friendships, contributing to its selection as a notable book by numerous literary organizations.

**Aref Al-Amri**  
A third-grader attending The American International School of Muscat, who is curious and fascinated by the world, particularly animals like turtles. He is preparing for an imminent move to the United States with his family.

**Sidi**  
Aref's grandfather who lives in Muscat and is a well-respected, familiar figure in the community. He acts as a role model for Aref, encouraging him to appreciate different perspectives and preparing him for his departure from Oman.

**Aref’s Father**  
A jovial character who, although appearing briefly, communicates excitement and anticipation for the family's move to the United States. He tries to spark Aref's enthusiasm by mentioning details about their new life in his emails.

**Aref’s Mother**  
A university teacher in Muscat who supports Aref by encouraging him to learn English and involving Sidi in his preparatory adventures. She emphasizes the cultural tradition of leaving and returning to Oman while managing the logistics of their move.

Naomi Shihab Nye

Middle grade

Novel

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Chapters 1-7

The Turtle of Oman Chapters 1-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-14

The Turtle of Oman Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-22

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Chapters 23-29

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Chapters 30-37

The Turtle of Oman Chapters 30-37 Summary & Analysis

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The Turtle of Oman Character Analysis

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The Turtle of Oman

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