Orange for the Sunsets

22,88 $

“Orange for the Sunsets” by Tina Athaide is a captivating historical fiction novel perfect for middle-grade readers. Set in 1972 Uganda under Idi Amin’s rule, it tells the story of Asha and Yesofu, best friends navigating a world turned upside down when Amin orders all Indians to leave the country. This beautifully written book explores themes of friendship, identity, and belonging as Asha, an Indian girl, and Yesofu, an African boy, confront prejudice and the potential loss of their cherished bond. Inspired by real events and the author’s own Ugandan Asian heritage, “Orange for the Sunsets” is a poignant and timely reminder of the importance of empathy and standing up for what’s right, earning accolades as a Chicago Public Librarys Best of the Best and a Canadian Childrens Book Center Best Books pick. A compelling and accessible story for young readers to learn about a significant historical event and the power of friendship.

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* A Chicago Public Librarys Best of the Best Books of 2019 Selection * A Canadian Childrens Book Center Best Books for Kids & Teens Pick *
From debut author Tina Athaide comes a soaring tale of empathy, hope, and resilience, as two best friends living under Ugandan President Amins divisive rule must examine whereand whothey call home.
Perfect for fans of Half from the East and Inside Out and Back Again.
Asha and her best friend, Yesofu, never cared about the differences between them: Indian. African. Girl. Boy. Short. Tall.
But when Idi Amin announces that Indians have ninety days to leave the country, suddenly those differences are the only things that people in Entebbe can seenot the shared after-school samosas or Asha cheering for Yesofu at every cricket game.
Determined for her life to stay the same, Asha clings to her world tighter than ever before. But Yesofu is torn, pulled between his friends, his family, and a promise of a better future. Now as neighbors leave and soldiers line the streets, the two friends find that nothing seems surenot even their friendship.
Tensions between Indians and Africans intensify and the deadline to leave is fast approaching. Could the bravest thing of all be to let each other go?

Discover a poignant tale of friendship and identity amidst political upheaval in Tina Athaide's debut novel, "Orange for the Sunsets." Set against the backdrop of Idi Amin's Uganda in 1972, this compelling historical fiction novel explores the lives of Asha and Yesofu, two inseparable friends whose world is irrevocably altered by the president's decree expelling Ugandan Asians. Asha, an Indian girl, and Yesofu, an African boy, have always transcended the societal divides that threaten to separate them. Their bond is woven into the fabric of their everyday lives, from sharing delicious samosas after school to Asha's unwavering support for Yesofu at his cricket games. Their innocence and carefree camaraderie represent a harmonious blend of cultures in their vibrant community of Entebbe. However, Amin's sudden and shocking announcement throws their idyllic world into chaos. The ultimatum for Indians to leave Uganda within ninety days ignites simmering tensions between the Indian and African communities, forcing Asha and Yesofu to confront the differences that they had previously overlooked. Suddenly, their identities become the defining factors in how others perceive them, jeopardizing their cherished friendship. As the deadline looms, Asha desperately clings to the familiar, refusing to let the political turmoil disrupt her life. She struggles to reconcile her love for Uganda with the impending displacement of her community. Yesofu, on the other hand, finds himself torn between loyalty to his friend, the expectations of his family, and the allure of a potentially brighter future elsewhere. He grapples with the complex emotions of witnessing his Indian neighbors, friends, and classmates forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods. "Orange for the Sunsets" masterfully captures the emotional turmoil of children navigating a world consumed by prejudice and fear. Athaide's evocative prose paints a vivid picture of Entebbe, showcasing its beauty and vibrancy while also exposing the growing undercurrent of discrimination. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, prejudice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Inspired by true events, "Orange for the Sunsets" offers a crucial perspective on a significant historical moment that is often overlooked. Athaide's personal connection to the story, growing up as an Ugandan Asian herself, lends authenticity and depth to the narrative. The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of intolerance and the importance of empathy and understanding in a diverse society. More than just a historical account, "Orange for the Sunsets" is a deeply moving story about the enduring power of friendship. As Asha and Yesofu grapple with the changing landscape of their lives, they must confront difficult choices that will test the very foundation of their bond. Will their friendship survive the pressures of prejudice and displacement? Or will the forces of division tear them apart? Readers will be captivated by their journey and inspired by their courage to navigate a world filled with uncertainty. "Orange for the Sunsets" is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and moving story about friendship, identity, and hope in the face of adversity. Perfect for middle grade readers and beyond, this book encourages important conversations about history, culture, and the importance of standing up for what is right. A Chicago Public Librarys Best of the Best Books of 2019 Selection and a Canadian Childrens Book Center Best Books for Kids & Teens Pick, this is a highly regarded title.
Additional information
Authors

Binding

Condition

ISBN-10

0062795295

ISBN-13

9780062795298

Language

Pages

336

Publisher

Year published

Weight

363

Edition

1

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