Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate

Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate is about Kek, an immigrant from Sudan, just learning how to survive in America. His father and brother were killed in Africa and Kek barely made it out alive. His mother was separated from him when soldiers attacked, and no one knows where she is. Kek is brought to the United States to live with his aunt and cousin, who have also been affected by the violence in Sudan. Kek is amazed at the modern technology and customs in America, but continues to hold on to his own beliefs and ideas about life. He also continues to believe that his mother is alive and will one day join him.

This was a great book. It is told in verse, so it's a quick read. The broad ideas within the story are relevant to everyone's lives - this isn't just a story about an immigrant trying to survive in America. It's a story that could be about any one of us, struggling in a new place, learning new things, trying our best, making mistakes, overcoming obstacles, etc. This is one of the 2009 - 2010 Maud Hart Lovelace nominees.