Poetry for Me

Muslim-American teen poet Noel Hassan draws on her experiences as a Yemeni girl growing up part of multiple worlds to produce a first work that every teen in America will understand, no matter what their background. In Poetry for Me, Noel reflects the depth of her relationships with members of her family, and reflects on the joys and hazards of growing up as a traditional Muslim girl both in Oakland, California and in the tiny town of Robbins, sitting northeast of Sacramento with a population of 323. A skilled poet at a young age, her poems resonate across cultural boundaries. They delve into emotions and events that shape every teen, as well as most adults. This debut book of poetry will touch the heart of all readers. From "Being Different": Being Different Basically means Being true to the person you are and who you want to be. Being Different Basically means Being a flower instead of a tree in the big forest that everyone else wants to be. Being Different Basically means Not following society's orders.