LitPick Review
Can a group of almost ten-year-olds make a difference? Meet Alexa, Josie, Tom, and Michael, just ordinary kids in an ordinary classroom in England, until the new boy, Ahmet, is assigned the empty chair at the back of the classroom. The fact that Ahmet is quiet, has “eyes like a lion’s,” and at recess spends his time “in seclusion,” adds to his mystique. The playground is abuzz with all kinds of rumors about Ahmet. Are his family spies? Is he under threat of being kidnapped? Does he have a super-contagious disease? But as they soon discover, Ahmet's arrival was under even darker circumstances. Circumstances that no child should ever have to endure. He is a refugee who became separated from his parents. Driven by a sense of justice and compassion, Alexa, Josie, Tom, and Michael set out to right the wrongs done to their new friend. But when time is of the essence, their initial plans are thrown out the window and Alexa designs the Greatest Idea in the World. A plan that involves meeting the Queen herself! Will the plan succeed, or will it put them in danger?
Opinion:
The Boy at the Back of the Class is a compelling tale of friendship and bravery, written by Onjali Q. Raúf, who tackles a politically charged topic with sensitivity and opens the door for communication and perhaps “Wide World Whispers.” Narrated from a child's perspective, the story is entirely convincing, aided by believable hand-drawn sketches that bring the story to life. The vivid setting descriptions lure readers into the story, while Raúf introduces us to memorable and diverse characters with unique personalities. Minor critiques are that the physical description and name of the narrator/main character are not given until late in the book. Holding out such details can create a distance between the reader and main character. Also, because the conclusion is separated from the climax of the story by several chapters, the ending seems unnecessarily drawn out. Even so, the plot is a heart-thief and will stay with the reader long after the final page is turned. Be compelled! Read The Boy at the Back of the Class!
