A Very Large Expanse of Sea

Bibliography

Mafi, T. (2018). A Very Large Expanse of Sea. HarperCollins.

ISBN

978-0062874825

Plot Summary

A Very Large Expanse of Sea follows Shirin, a sixteen-year-old Muslim American girl, during the year after the September 11 attacks. Because she wears a hijab, she experiences discrimination, bullying, and stereotypes at nearly every new school she attends. Shirin keeps people at a distance to protect herself, but when she joins a breakdancing club and begins spending time with Ocean, a classmate, she starts to question whether she should let others into her life. Throughout the novel, Shirin learns about trust, identity, family, and staying true to herself despite the challenges she faces.

Critical Analysis

A Very Large Expanse of Sea provides an honest look at what it was like to be a Muslim American teenager after 9/11. Through Shirin's experiences, readers see how stereotypes and prejudice affected her daily life. I think the book does a good job of showing how exhausting it can be to constantly feel judged before people even get to know you.

One thing I really appreciated was that Shirin is a strong and realistic character. She refuses to change who she is just to make other people comfortable. Even though she struggles with anger and frustration, she also finds happiness through her family, breakdancing, and the friendships she begins to build. This made her feel like a real person instead of a perfect character.

The story does not include illustrations, but Tahereh Mafi's writing helps readers understand Shirin's emotions and the challenges she faces. The book also gives readers a better understanding of Muslim culture and reminds us that one person's actions should never define an entire group of people.

Overall, I think A Very Large Expanse of Sea is a powerful story about identity, resilience, and belonging. One thing that stood out to me was how important it was for Shirin to stay true to herself, even when others treated her unfairly. I think the book encourages readers to look beyond stereotypes and take the time to understand someone's story before making assumptions.

Review Excerpts

"A timely and emotionally powerful novel about identity and belonging." - Publishers Weekly

"An honest and compelling story that deserves a wide audience." -School Library Journal

"Mafi gives readers an unforgettable and authentic voice." - Booklist

Awards and Recognitions

National Book Award Finalist -Young People's Literature (2018)

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor Book -2019

Walter Dean Myers Honor Book -2019

YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults - 2019

Connections

Discuss how stereotypes can affect the way people are treated and why it is important to get to know someone before making assumptions.

Research how different cultures express their identity through clothing, traditions, or religion.