Boy 87
Ele Fountain
Subjects
- Friends & Family - tears and laughter, and happy ever after
Boy87 is an original and beautifully written page-turner of a novel about love, survival and the strength that can be found in a hopeful human spirit' -- Sarah Crossan, Carnegie Medal Winner 'Shif is an unforgettable character, and his story should be read by everyone who cares about one of the unfolding tragedies of our time' -- Award-winning author Elizabeth Laird Shif is just an ordinary boy who likes chess, maths and racing his best friend home from school. But one day, soldiers with guns come to his door - and he knows that he is no longer safe. Shif is forced to leave his mother and little sister, and embark on a dangerous journey; a journey through imprisonment and escape, new lands and strange voices, and a perilous crossing by land and sea. He will encounter cruelty and kindness; he will become separated from the people he loves. Boy 87 is a gripping, uplifting tale of one boy's struggle for survival; it echoes the story of young people all over the world today.
Reviews
A gritty refuge story of Matt who travels across to the UK. I really appreciated that the story painted a vivid picture of how Matt lived before he was forced to flee for his life. The story is harrowing as Matt and shows the violence that is present in our world. I would recommend for year 6 and above and would be an excellent choice to read in the Summer Term for Refugee week. This is a story that we think we understand but reading this book with help everyone increase their empathy to families that have to leave their homes.
Jlibrarydudley
This was such an emotional read; gripping but sad to hear of the nightmares facing boys in these African countries. Imagining the life that Shif had before being abducted and the struggles barely surviving his ordeal felt insurmountable. He never gives up on hope, remains strong for his family and especially in honouring his friendship with Bini. The relationships are described wonderfully.
rrowlands
I found the story equally poignant and powerful. What Shif and other families have to endure in those countries is horrific and inhumane. The characters and the relationships that are made are depicted wonderfully, Whilst setting the scene for families struggling through life in these impoverished countries, the people are portrayed full of hope and resilience. Ele describes the culture and the realism vividly albeit leaving much to the imagination so that it appeals to younger readers without too much trauma.
Loved this book!!!
Helenkk
Highly emotive tale which I really couldn't put down.
SamH2021
A fictional story about a boy in an unnamed country who is forced to flee for his own survival. Shif and his best friend Bini are on the cusp of leaving the country when soldiers find them first and take them away to a prison camp near the border. Their hunger, fear and desperation are palpable - and their story makes you reflect on what drives so many people to undertake such a dangerous journey and leave behind their home. This is a quick, gripping read - where the action and reflection are well balanced.
liberryan
It was so easy to read I read it in two days. It flows nicely and was so gripping I struggled to put it down. The topic seems very appropriate to understand other people across the world and what they are going through. A useful topic to talk to my child and students about.
rpage
This gripping novel takes you on a journey. A boy Shif, who is a refugee, tries to make it safely over to England. If you read other books like refugee boy or illegal you are sure to enjoy this. I couldn’t put it down .Ele fountain you have done a good job
Annirobbo
A harrowing story of a desperate break for freedom and safety from a country wracked by war. Although a difficult read at times, it is completely unmissable and should be read by everyone who feels part of our world and wants to reach out to their neighbours. The main character Shif’s journey is full of challenges, but his courage is immense and all who read it will feel inspired in so many ways. It is a book of spirit and hope and completely relevant for our world today. Brilliant! Just ordered ‘Lost’ and can’t wait!!
Saz49
A great book and also very relevant and timely. Engages children but a cracking read for adults too. Highly recommended
Luke Swift