The Boy At the Back of the Class

A feel good novel as seen through the eyes of children, with a happy ending!

angpot

Amazing story of friendship and courage. Emotional, funny, gripping, my class loved it and all adults I know!

LaurenFT

An amazing read to educate children on refugees and some of the hardships they experience. The books tackled these issues in an interesting yet fun and child-friendly manner. One of my favourite chapters detailed an adventure the narrator and her mother went on to find a pomegranate for the refugee boy in her class. Although I throughly enjoyed the book (and was emotional during certain moments throughout), I did find that the first few chapters were a bit slow. Hence, the 4/5 rating rather than a perfect 5/5. Other than this, I will be re-reading this fantastic story and hope to teach it to a class one day!

NatashaC123

This book is captivating - a challenging topic delivered well. It is not the first time I have read this but it was a good reminder about how the topic of racism and prejudice can be supported through texts.

JTFernhurst

Quick easy read. Great characters. would recommend.

CvKirkwood

Boy at the Back of the Class was a standout favourite for my Year 4 class (and also my 11 year old son). Suitable for ages 9 and above, this powerful tale captured our hearts with its heartfelt narrative and important themes of empathy and friendship. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, Ahmet, readers embark on a journey of understanding and compassion towards refugees. The genuine portrayal of Ahmet's experiences resonated deeply with my class and son, fostering meaningful discussions about kindness and inclusion. It serves as a reminder of the impact of small acts of kindness and the strength of unity in the face of adversity.

hannahkav

I loved the humour used in this book as it does discuss difficult subject matter. It was a great way of increasing my classes awareness about what a refugee might have been through and develop their empathy.

KSergison27

This is a beautiful story of determination and friendship. Although the name of the narrator is unknown until the very end, you are engaged with the character. Told from a child's point of view with both emotion and humour. It really highlights the importance of kindness to all. The determination of children to help and support a friend makes this a heart warming read. An important story of the struggles faced by refugees of all ages whilst addressing issues including prejudice and bullying. However, kindness, respect and acceptance overcome these. It was great to read about such determination and hope which lead to a positive ending. A great book to share with young children to discuss issues facing others, encourage acceptance and kindness and develop empathy.

Whitehousen

Well deservedly winner of the Blue Peter Best Story award 2019, this book tells the story of children who set out to help their classmate and friend. This entertaining and heartwarming book prompts young (and older) readers to think about issues which go far beyond the classroom: bullying, privilege, security, bereavement, war and compassion. Lively, appealing characters, plenty of action, a touch of humour - and a heartfelt message. Absolutely brilliant!

Readforjoy

I’ve been wanting to read this for a while and got the chance over the summer. A moving and powerful story that explores friendship, prejudice and very topical theme of asylum seeking in a child friendly manner. Loved this one

sean23_e

I found this book very engaging and interesting. It really highlights the refugee crisis in a simple yet effective way. It touches upon friendship and kindness with the new friends the boy makes. The main theme which I took away from the book the message of not judging people before you know them.

Katie_5251

Such an amazing book. Really well written with such an important message that never seems forced. I laughed, smiled, cried. I read aloud to my two sons and I’m so pleased we shared this book together.

Lyndsay123

A light touch novel which deals with difficult themes ideal for ages 9-12. Themes = Grief, loss, refugee experience, racism, activism An enjoyable read but can be used by teachers with HWB/Social Sciences and Literacy lessons as well in IDL.

cmp73

What a fantastic read! The story of a refugee boy is told so well and I was hooked from the beginning. Important issues are raised alongside a lovely story of friendship and the bravery of children. It left me with a tear in my eye and lots to think about. I presumed this book wouldn't be suitable for young children but actually it would be an excellent way of tackling discussion around the refugee crisis.

SZig

I was interested to read this as it was number one in your list of 100 recommended books. It covers a lot of issues, obviously first and foremost about how and why people become refugees. But it also covers issues such as bullying in schools, tensions within families and the importance of friendship. The book is told in the first person and I was intrigued that you're kept guessing about the identity of the narrator until quite late on in the book - their gender and name. I was thinking while reading the book how many significant events have happened since it was published in 2018, including the war in Ukraine, the growth in the number of people crossing the UK in small boats and of course the death of the late Queen. I'd be interested in a sequel to hear how Ahmet and his family got on in the UK!

AliMax

A story of a new boy in class called Ahmet, who is befriended by the main character and her 3 friends who learn from him about what it's like to be a refugee, overcome bullying together and help him find Ahmet's parents. A truly heart-warming and touching story told, beautifully told through the eyes of a child. It would be a great way to teach children about the refugee crisis as they are learning along side the main character. It also teaches a great lesson to adults about humanity and how children do not judge and just take people for who they are with kindness, not through bigoted views. This book tackles many issues in a light and easy way including diversity, curiosity, bullying in school, built-in rules of schools and friendship. I finished the book with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.

adaorachime

Wonderful story

AGooderson

What an amazing book written through children’s eyes- it reminds us of what’s important! Written so well- I read it at speed as it was so engaging and highlights such an important thing and helps make children more aware of the world around them. Loved it!

VCook1978

Great book. Moving but also caring and fun in its nature. This book follows an individual who has a new class mate. The new class mate is a refugee from Syria called Ahmet and the protagonist wants to be friends with him. This book has some tear jerking moments and was beautifully written from the point of view of a child. It is sensitive but also eye opening about the ideas of refugee and the bias that are in our society. I would highly recommend this for everyone. It is a thought provoking and celebratory idea of being kind and the right for everyone to be happy.

Xulizuzu1