Omar Rising
#2 of 2 in Amal Unbound Series
on Goodreads (1,531)
What’s inside...
Omar knows his scholarship to Ghalib Academy Boarding School is a game changer, providing him - the son of a servant - with an opportunity to improve his station in life. He can't wait to experience all the school has to offer, especially science club and hopefully the soccer team; but when he arrives, his hopes are dashed. First-year scholarship students aren't allowed to join clubs or teams - and not only that, they have to earn their keep doing menial chores. At first Omar is dejected - but then he gets angry when he learns something even worse - the school deliberately 'weeds out' kids like him by requiring them to get significantly higher grades than kids who can pay tuition, making it nearly impossible for scholarship students to graduate. It's a good thing that in his favorite class, he’s learned the importance of being stubbornly optimistic. So with the help of his tightknit new group of friends - and with the threat of expulsion looming over him - he sets out to do what seems impossible: change a rigged system.
Character compass
Omar
Omar'S Mother
Discussion points
What character traits make Omar a hero in your eyes?
How does Omar's situation in school make you feel, and why?
Can you think of a time when you had to stand up for what's right, like Omar does?
What changes would you wish to see in Omar's school, and why?
How do the friendships in the story impact the events and Omar’s decisions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s characters and plot, affirming their thoughts and drawing parallels to their personal experiences.
Identify key moments in the story where Omar faces a challenge and discuss the importance of resilience and integrity.
Pause at pivotal moments in the story to predict what might happen next, encouraging critical thinking and engagement.
Use the story's setting and cultural aspects to broaden your child’s understanding of different lifestyles and perspectives.
After reading, encourage your child to think about how they can implement the lessons learned from Omar in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Omar Rising', Omar faces challenges at his prestigious scholarship school, yet he persists in striving for his rights and education.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own educational and personal challenges, understanding that obstacles are opportunities for growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of advocating for oneself and others
Explanation: Omar takes a stand against the unfair rules imposed on scholarship students, showing leadership and courage.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by speaking up against injustices in their schools or communities, learning that their voice can enact change.
Example Lesson: Value of education
Explanation: The story highlights how Omar treasures his educational opportunities, recognizing it as a pathway to a better future.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate and take their schooling seriously, acknowledging education's role in shaping their future prospects.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and solidarity
Explanation: Omar works together with his peers to challenge the status quo, showcasing the power of collective action.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of teamwork, seeing how collaboration with others can help overcome common challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Omar shows deep empathy towards his fellow scholarship students, understanding their struggles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of empathy, promoting a more inclusive attitude towards peers from different backgrounds and experiences.