This debut middle-grade novel chronicles the harrowing journey taken by Sami and his family from privilege to poverty, across countries and continents, from a comfortable life in Damascus, via a smuggler’s den in Turkey, to a prison in Manchester. A story of survival, of family, of bravery … In a world where we are told to see refugees as the ‘other’, this story will remind readers that ‘they’ are also ‘us’.
Wow! This book is hugely powerful and packs a punch. It will stay with you for a very long time. The author shares a moving account of the experience of being displaced from one’s home country and the refugee experience.
The fact that Sami’s family are wealthy and educated in Damascus in some ways makes the story even more impactful as their experience could be considered ‘better’ than many also attempting to make the journey. The characters are very well drawn throughout, each battling their own struggles, whilst trying to do what is best for their family in the most challenging of situations. It is a book with huge depth that will generate a lot of important conversations and one that is filled with empathy and small kindness amongst the turmoil and fear.
Best suited for mature readers in the lower years of KS3, this story is a harrowing read. The narrative references bombing, casualties, the journey of a refugee and the conditions and danger they might be forced to endure, the perilous journey over the sea with boats capsising, internment in an immigration centre and an assault, as well as family rejection and the feeling of not belonging and being undervalued in a new country. The emotional turmoil of all members of the family also makes this a necessary and powerful, yet challenging read that will be remembered for a long time after reading.
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Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
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Curriculum links (if relevant)
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