Estimated read time: 5 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters
| Character Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Josef Landau | Jewish boy fleeing Nazi Germany |
| Isabel Fernandez | Cuban girl escaping Castro's regime |
| Mahmoud Bishara | Syrian boy escaping the civil war |
Role Identification
The book "Refugee" by Alan Gratz presents three primary characters: Josef Landau, Isabel Fernandez, and Mahmoud Bishara. Each character represents a distinct historical context and geographical location, reflecting the universal struggle of seeking refuge from persecution and war.
Character Descriptions
Josef Landau
Josef is a young Jewish boy living in 1930s Nazi Germany. His family faces persecution and must flee to attain freedom. Josef's journey highlights the struggles faced by Jews during the Holocaust.
Isabel Fernandez
Isabel is a Cuban girl living in 1994. She and her family attempt to escape the economic and political turmoil in Cuba, seeking a better life in the United States. Her story illustrates the desperation and hope of Cuban refugees.
Mahmoud Bishara
Mahmoud is a Syrian boy whose life is shattered by the civil war in Syria. His family's journey to find safety in Europe underlines the modern refugee crisis and the resilience required to survive such perilous circumstances.
Character Traits
| Character Name | Traits |
|---|---|
| Josef Landau | Brave, determined, mature beyond his years |
| Isabel Fernandez | Resourceful, compassionate, optimistic |
| Mahmoud Bishara | Courageous, resilient, empathetic |
Josef Landau
Josef demonstrates bravery as he navigates the dangerous journey with his family. Despite his young age, he is forced to mature quickly, showing determination to protect his family.
Isabel Fernandez
Isabel is resourceful, showcasing her ability to adapt to challenging situations. Her compassion for others and optimistic outlook help her family maintain hope during their dangerous journey.
Mahmoud Bishara
Mahmoud exhibits courage in the face of adversity, often taking risks to ensure his family's safety. His resilience is evident as he endures the harsh realities of war, and his empathy allows him to connect with others in similar situations.
Character Background
Josef Landau
Josef comes from a Jewish family in Berlin, Germany, during the rise of the Nazi regime. His family decides to flee after his father is taken to a concentration camp, eventually boarding the ship MS St. Louis to seek asylum.
Isabel Fernandez
Isabel lives in Havana, Cuba, with her family. The economic hardships and political oppression under Fidel Castro's rule force her family to attempt an escape to Miami, Florida, aboard a makeshift boat.
Mahmoud Bishara
Mahmoud's family resides in Aleppo, Syria, which becomes a battleground in the Syrian civil war. The constant threat of violence and bombings pushes them to undertake a treacherous journey across multiple countries to reach safety in Germany.
Character Arcs
Josef Landau
Josef's arc is one of growth and sacrifice. He transforms from a scared child into a responsible young man, understanding the weight of his family's survival. His experiences shape him into someone who values courage and humanity over fear.
Isabel Fernandez
Isabel's journey is marked by hope and perseverance. She learns the value of family and community support, growing from a young girl into a determined individual who understands the importance of freedom and opportunity for a better future.
Mahmoud Bishara
Mahmoud's arc highlights his development from a boy seeking normalcy to a resilient survivor. He learns to embrace his identity as a refugee, finding strength in solidarity with others and understanding the power of empathy and kindness.
Relationships
Josef Landau
Josef's relationship with his family is central to his journey. He shares a close bond with his younger sister, Ruthie, and takes on a protective role, especially after their father's capture. His interactions with other Jewish refugees onboard MS St. Louis also emphasize community and solidarity.
Isabel Fernandez
Isabel's family is her foundation. Her relationship with her grandmother, Lito, is particularly significant, as he provides wisdom and guidance. Her friendship with Ivan, a fellow refugee, underscores the importance of companionship during their perilous voyage.
Mahmoud Bishara
Mahmoud's relationship with his family, especially his younger brother Waleed, is pivotal. As the older sibling, Mahmoud feels responsible for Waleed's safety. His interactions with other refugees highlight the shared struggles and support systems that form among those fleeing conflict.
Conclusion
In "Refugee," Alan Gratz crafts a compelling narrative through the stories of Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud. Each character's journey reflects the timeless and universal themes of hope, resilience, and the quest for freedom. By weaving their stories together, Gratz emphasizes the shared humanity of refugees across different eras and regions, reminding readers of the enduring impact of empathy and compassion.