Families who loved The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts asking difficult questions about the evening news, or when they notice a new student in class who seems isolated by a language barrier. It is a powerful tool for parents wanting to nurture a sense of global citizenship and active empathy in children aged 8 to 12. The story follows a group of friends who go on a 'Greatest Idea' mission to help Ahmet, a Syrian refugee who has just joined their school. While it deals with the weight of the global refugee crisis, it remains firmly rooted in the perspective of a child. It focuses on the power of a simple piece of fruit, a kind smile, and the courage required to stand up against prejudice. It is an essential choice for families looking to discuss social justice and the true meaning of being a friend to those who have lost everything.
