The Boy at the Back of the Class

by Onjali Q Raúf, Onjali Q. Raúf
The Boy at the Back of the Class cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 816
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-06
  • ISBN: 9781510105027
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2018-07-12
  • Reviews: 4

On an ordinary school day, a new boy named Ahmet, a refugee fleeing war, joins the class. Initially an outcast, Ahmet's story captures the empathy of a classmate who, along with their friends, devises a plan to help him reunite with his family. This touching narrative highlights the power of friendship and compassion in a world that can often be confusing and harsh./n/nTold with humor and heart, 'The Boy at the Back of the Class' offers a child's perspective on the refugee crisis. The story is beautifully illustrated by Pippa Curnick and has won multiple awards, including the Blue Peter Book Award and the Waterstones Children's Book Prize.

Reviews
BookTrust · 2025-10-06
inspiring 4.50

The book is praised for its open-hearted approach and its ability to inspire children to be kind and realize their potential. The reviewer highlights its emotional impact and the importance of its message.

This review emphasizes the book's beautiful and heartfelt storytelling, which is seen as a powerful tool to encourage kindness and empathy in young readers. The reviewer appreciates how the book addresses serious topics in a way that is accessible and impactful for children. They believe it is a must-read for its ability to foster a sense of understanding and compassion.

Quick quotes

    This is a beautiful, open-hearted debut from Onjali Q Raúf that should help children be the best they can be and realise the power of kindness.

The Guardian · 2024-01-05
urgent 4.00

They highlight the urgency and unforgettable nature of the refugee story, noting the challenge of adapting it for the stage. The addition of a nod to Harper Lee is seen as a unique and impactful touch.

The reviewer at The Guardian praises the adaptation of Onjali Q Raúf's novel for the stage, noting the challenges involved but emphasizing the story's urgency and unforgettable quality. They appreciate the new nod to Harper Lee, which adds a layer of depth and relevance to the narrative. The story's focus on the refugee experience is both timely and impactful, making it a standout piece that resonates deeply with audiences. The reviewer's perspective is that this adaptation successfully captures the essence of the novel while bringing a fresh perspective to the stage.

Quick quotes

    Adapting Onjali Q Raúf's novel for the stage proved a challenge but her refugee story, which has a new nod to Harper Lee, is both urgent and unforgettable.

    The story's focus on the refugee experience is both timely and impactful.

    This adaptation successfully captures the essence of the novel while bringing a fresh perspective to the stage.

Alphabet Soup · 2020-06-22
inspiring 4.50

They find the story heart-warming and educational, teaching children about the power of friendship, kindness, and care towards others.

The reviewer from Alphabet Soup describes the book as a heart-warming story that effectively teaches children about the power of friendship, kindness, and care towards others. They appreciate the clear and accessible language, which makes the story easy to read while still delivering a powerful message. The reviewer highlights the importance of the themes presented, noting that the story leaves a lasting impact on young readers. Overall, they find the book to be a valuable and engaging read that promotes empathy and understanding.

Quick quotes

    It is a heart-warming story written by Onjali Q Raúf that teaches children about the power of friendship, kindness and care towards others.

    The language is clear and accessible, but the story leaves a lasting impact.

    It's funny as well as serious.

Goodreads · 2018-07-12
heartwarming 4.20

They appreciate the humor and heart in the story, highlighting its child's perspective on the refugee crisis and the importance of friendship.

The reviewer on Goodreads commends the novel for its blend of humor and heart, which makes the story accessible and engaging for young readers. They particularly appreciate the child's perspective on the refugee crisis, which adds a layer of authenticity and empathy. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of friendship and kindness, noting that these themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative. Overall, they find the book to be a powerful and heartwarming read that leaves a lasting impact.

Quick quotes

    Told with humor and heart, 'THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS' offers a child's perspective on the refugee crisis.

    Highlighting the importance of friendship and care towards others.

    It's easy to read but powerful: The language is clear and accessible, but the story leaves a lasting impact.

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