The Newcomers

The Newcomers

Adult nonfiction
"...They could be anywhere from fourteen to nineteen, and a few
would not know exactly how old they were. They come from nations
convulsed by drought or famine or war, countries that are barely
countries anymore. Many came directly from refugee camps. Every so
often he got a student who arrived in the United States alone, having
left or lost every member of his or her family..."
They are teen immigrants and refugees from some of the most
impoverished and volatile regions of the world, places where simply
leaving one's house puts one in peril of rape, murder, or recruitment
into a brutal gang or militia. Now they're experiencing a world of
new language, customs, food, and even weather. For some electricity,
indoor plumbing, and running water are novelties. He is Eddie
Williams, the teacher who shepherds this group of students through the
first part of their American education, trying to get them through the
basics and secure in their new nation. The goal for each is to
acquire a high school diploma before aging out of the public school
system. As you'll see, it can be quite the challenge for teacher and
student.
Author Helen Thorpe embedded herself in Williams' newcomer
English class in Denver's South High School for a year and a half.
The Newcomers covers the students' academic and social growth. With
the help of translators and families willing to let her spend time in
their homes, Thorpe is also able to learn and share the stories behind
the desperate search for new lives.
In the background, like the ominous music in Jaws before the
shark strikes, there is coverage of the rise of Donald Trump from
comic candidate with no chance of winning to president elect.
I think everyone who wants to see America hold true to the
promise embodied in the Statue of Liberty will find The Newcomers to
be a must read.
On a personal note, whenever I read a book like The Newcomers, I walk
through my house, trying to see my life as a refugee would see it, and
realizing how truly privileged I am. I turn on my tap and think of
the millions of people for whom this in house water access would be
nothing short of miracle. It makes me want to do whatever I can to
gain for these people all those things that too many take Americans
for granted that could make huge differences in their lives. Most of
you will never be refugees. But books can help you walk a mile in
their shoes and get to care. Please let them do so.
A great big shout out goes out to those who work with and advocate for
our very vulnerable newcomers.
jules hathaway


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