Boy Overboard written by Morris Gleitzman is a novel based around the efforts of Jamal and his sister Bibi, two young foreigners that have ambitions in escaping their war ravaged country for a better life in Australia. Boy Overboard is also written in the perspective of Jamal, which allows readers to relate to his interests and decision making throughout the story.
Fuelled by a passion for soccer Jamal has lofty ambitions of playing for Australia in the next World Cup. However, his family’s journey to Australia takes numerous turns for the worst, as him and his sister are separated from their parents, face pirates and underprivileged conditions on a refuge boat. However through the trying conditions the dreams and ambitions of playing for Australia, in conjunction with soccer clichés such as ‘fight to the final whistle’ and ‘never give up’ get Jamal and his family through. However Gleitzman adds a further twist to the story when, Jamal and Bibi, aren’t welcomed to Australian shores and are considered illegal immigrants.
This novel would be great in conjunction with a primary school based ‘refugee week’ or ‘multicultural day’, as the text informs privileged students on just how fortunate they are.
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