Tagging Freedom

Out of the revolutions across the Arab world comes this inspiring story of hope, freedom, and belonging, perfect for fans of Other Words for Home and A Good Kind of Trouble.

Kareem Haddad of Damascus, Syria, never dreamed of becoming a graffiti artist. But when a group of boys from another town spray-paints subversive slogans outside their school, and another boy is killed while in custody, Kareem and his friends are inspired to secretly tag messages of freedom throughout their city.

Meanwhile, in the United States, his cousin Samira has been trying to make her own mark. Anxious to fit in at school, she joins the Spirit Squad, where her natural artistic talent attracts the attention of the group’s popular leader. Then Kareem is sent to live with Sam’s family, and their worlds collide. As graffiti begins appearing around town and suspicion falls on Kareem, Sam must decide whether to protect her newfound social status or stand by her cousin.

Drawing on her experience as a journalist, Rhonda Roumani’s Tagging Freedom is a thoughtful exploration of the intersection of art and activism. Rich in detail and grounded in a realistic portrayal of how war affects—and inspires—children, it will resonate with readers of Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga, The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani, and Refugee by Alan Gratz.