Internment by Samira Ahmed

Another twitter find, I remember the days when I had to go to the bookstore to find out what was new in the YA book section, now I just scroll through Twitter to find out what people are talking about.  It's hard on my credit card, but I don't think it's any harder than when I went right to the bookstore, just more convenient.  

Internment was a fabulous read.  It is set about 15 minutes into the future in the United States.  It is so close to many of the worries based on the political division in the US (and starting in Canada).  This idea of us vs. them is very scary.  

Internment is the story of 17 year old Layla Amin.  Ever since her family checked off the Muslim box on the census, life has slowly started to change for her.  She is no longer able to go to school, can't see her boyfriend, her parents have lost their jobs and now, her and her family are forced into leaving their homes and taken to an internment camp for Muslim American citizens.   Her parents are worried about so many things, but mostly they are worried for Layla's safety.  But Layla isn't going to take this forced camp laying down.  Her and her fellow teenage allies, Layla looks for ways to fight for her freedom and the freedom of all Muslim's.  

I can't say enough of this book, it was a great read.  I am cautious about who I would give it to though, it is political enough and could be frightening for some students to read about what could happen.   I would strongly suggest people read it first before giving it to any students.