The Boy At the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Rauf (Review)

'There used to be an empty chair at the back of my class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it.

He's nine years old (just like me), but he's very strange. He never talks and never smiles and doesn't like sweets - not even lemon sherbet's, which are my favourite!

But then I learned the truth: Ahmet really isn't very strange at all. He's a refugee who's run away from a War. A real one. With bombs and fires and bullies that hurt people. And the more I find out about him, the more I want to help.

That's where my best friends Josie, Michael and Tom come in. Because you see, together we've come up with a plan. . .'

This book was absolutely beautiful.

I honestly don't know if I have the words to describe how beautiful this book was. As it is a middle grade book I wasnt expecting to feel as moved as I did whilst reading this book.

This book is perfect for the time we live in. With the Refugee crisis such a prevalent issue, reading a book about it told from a child's point of view is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

The innocence of children and their sense of right and wrong is something that adults should really take note of and learn from.

Onjali Q. Rauf has done a wonderful job in explaining such a divisive issue in a way that is both humourous and heartfelt. This book is the perfect book for young children to read to help them understand an issue that they are hearing about yet most likely not understanding.

The young characters in this book are both inquisitive and insightful. Having characters that you can really get behind and understand make for a truly honest reaction as a reader. Having a mix of adult characters with opposing views and beliefs really helps to shine a wider light on the issues being told and show varying points of view. Having multiple ideals being shown makes for a better discussion and a better understanding of the issues.

To have all of these points raised in a children's book is a wonderful idea that makes for a truly wonderful reading experience.

Onjali Q. Rauf did a fantastic job in blending these big issue with humour, comedy and normal childhood issues. This book was perfectly woven to create a truly wonderful book that will not only entertain but also enlighten curious young readers.

I am truly overwhelmed with how amazing this book was and I can't speak highly enough about it. I honestly believe I am a better person because of this book.

The Boy At The Back Of The Class by Onjali Q. Rauf is a true masterpiece in all sense of the world and should be read by both young and old. Maybe we can all learn something from Ahmet and his friends.