Mark R Benedict

Asylee Mark R Benedict

America has just embarked on its boldest experiment: creating a start-up city composed of 50,000 of the most vulnerable asylum seekers from around the world. High school volunteer Calvin Edwards narrates the rise of one of the new internationals: high schooler Asylee Juma. Asylee not only grapples with refugee status but also aims to become an Olympic runner. Calvin watches as their new friends and families create their new lives in the diverse community. But legalities, threats, and attacks endanger Asylee, his dreams, and his racing career. Calvin and Asylee's relationship grows and wanes before facing the ultimate test of friendship. Can Asylee triumph over adversity and can Calvin find a place as a white American in this new international city?