This is the compelling fictional story of a courageous girl's life in war-torn Somalia. The country has been ravaged by civil war, and Mogadishu is under the control of al-Shabaab, a violent fundamentalist militia group with oppressive laws. Amina's father is a recognized artist whose paintings reflect the social conditions. When al-Shabaab arrests him for this reason, the family is destitute, and it falls on Amina to take care of them. She, too, is a talented artist and draws on the walls of abandoned buildings, leaving messages of resistance and hope. Amina's vulnerability and strength make her a compelling protagonist with whom readers will easily empathize. The book is rich with realistic, complex details about Islam, agency, urban life, and friendship. Amina's story is at once culturally specific, unique, and universal, so that readers from all walks of life will find moments of connection. Politically relevant, this timely story offers many opportunities for classroom discussion.