Pick of the Day: Out of Nowhere

PADIAN, Maria. Out of Nowhere. 338p. Knopf. 2013. Tr $16.99. ISBN 978-0-375-86580-0; PLB $19.99. ISBN 978-0-375-96580-7; ebook $10.99. ISBN 978-0-375-89610-1. LC 2012005653.
Gr 9 Up–Tom Bouchard’s small Maine hometown has become a key secondary migration location for Somali immigrants, and the local high school is overwhelmed with helping these students adjust to their new surroundings. As captain of the soccer team, Tom follows his instincts and recruits a Somali player, cashing in on Saeed’s talents and unique playing style. In the wake of a racially charged incident on their home turf, the team goes on to beat their crosstown rival, sparking racist reactions both from the opposition and local authorities. To classify Out of Nowhere as a sports story sells it short. Soccer is certainly an element, with a fair amount of play-by-play action (and standard locker-room language), but the novel is rich and multidimensional, addressing the Muslim experience in America, addiction, and romance. Tom is an authentic narrator who deals out life-changing empathy.–Leah Krippner, Harlem High School, Machesney Park, IL