Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference

Explore the role of organized sports in fostering a sense of community and positive self-esteem among the refugee youth in Charleston. What does St. John’s narrative suggest about The Value of Organized Sports for Young People broadly and underserved communities specifically?

Analyze the character of Luma Mufleh. How does her background and approach to coaching contribute to the success of the Fugees and the integration of the players into Clarkston society?

How does Outcasts United challenge or reinforce stereotypes about refugees and immigrants? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Examine the role of education and other social services in the lives of the Fugees. How does the presence of teachers and coaches affect the players’ quality of life after resettlement in Clarkston?

Discuss the significance of the book’s title. In what ways does St. John position the Fugees as outcasts within Clarkston and the soccer community? How do they navigate this marginalization?

Explore the impact of the media on the Fugees’ story. How does media coverage shape public perception of the team and broader issues of immigration and refugee resettlement?

Consider the structure St. John chose for Outcasts United. In what ways does the structure support his arguments about diversity and community? Cite specific examples from the text to support your ideas.

The book ends with a heartbreaking loss for the Fugees, and information about their later successes is reserved for the Epilogue. What is the effect of St. John ending the narrative with a loss rather than a victory? In what ways does St. John add nuance to the concept of a “happy ending”?