Welcome to the New World: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize

A Syrian family leaves their world behind for a chance at the American dream, but are greeted by the news of Donald Trump's victory. This graphic novel fills in the gaps, revealing an America full of contradictions and an intimate portrait of family dynamics and everyday fortitude.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A story about ordinary people navigating a strange land, in even stranger times. On the eve of the US elections, a Syrian family leaves their world behind for a chance at the American dream. But as the first day of their new life dawns, they are greeted by the news of Donald Trump's victory. It's as if they arrived in one country and woke up in another. What does that mean for their past, their future... their home?

Welcome to the New World began as a ground-breaking comic strip in the New York Times. Every week, the Aldabaan family's experiences would be retold as a cartoon strip – keeping step as events unfolded in real life. One Pulitzer Prize later, this stunning graphic novel fills in the gaps, gradually revealing an America that is full of contradictions: foreign yet familiar, ignorant but kind, cruel yet generous. It's also an intimate portrait of family dynamics and everyday fortitude, from the first day at a new school to getting a new job (any job!) against the clock. It seems that if you can't turn back, the only way to go is onwards.

The Aldabaan family, a Syrian family, embarks on a journey to the United States, hoping to escape the war-torn country and pursue the American dream. However, their hopes are dashed when Donald Trump wins the US elections, leaving them in a strange land that feels foreign yet familiar. As they begin their new life, they are confronted with the reality of a country that is full of contradictions.

On the one hand, they are welcomed with open arms by some Americans, who are sympathetic to their plight and offer them assistance. On the other hand, they face discrimination and hostility from others, who view them as outsiders and threaten their safety. The family must navigate these challenges while trying to adapt to their new environment and find a sense of belonging.

The graphic novel beautifully captures the complexities of the American experience, from the diverse cities and landscapes to the different cultures and religions that exist. It also delves into the family dynamics, as the members struggle to adjust to their new lives and cope with the loss of their homeland. The story is filled with moments of hope and despair, as the family faces numerous obstacles and setbacks.

Despite the challenges they face, the Aldabaan family remains determined to make a better life for themselves. They work hard to learn English, find jobs, and build a community of support. They also find solace in each other, as they rely on their love and strength to overcome the obstacles that come their way.

Welcome to the New World is a powerful and emotional story that sheds light on the experiences of immigrants and refugees in a time of political uncertainty and division. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of ordinary people who are willing to risk everything for a better future. The graphic novel is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of the American experience and the importance of compassion and understanding.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 234 x 177 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526623768