Rajiv
An excellent middle-grade novel
“Nowhere Boy” is a beautiful story of friendship and hope that touched my heart.
Firstly, I loved how the author tackled the story of the Syrian refugees and how they have suffered for a middle-grade audience. I think it’s essential to have books out there to educate younger readers on how people from some countries are suffering and how we can be empathetic and helpful towards them at an early age.
My heart went out to Ahmed from the first page, and I was rooting for him to find his father. The author writes him in such a beautiful, vulnerable way that, just like Max, you want to help him. I thought the author wrote him perfectly, from his love of gardening and orchids to how he communicates with Max. Similarly, Max is adorable, and I loved his sense of adventure and how he supports Ahmed no matter what. While the two don’t have much in common or speak the same language, I loved how the author formed their friendship and created a strong bone between them. Also, even the supporting cast like Claire and Oscar add nicely to the mix.
The story will make you laugh, cry, and even tense you at certain moments. I was glued in the second half as Max and Ahmed go on their adventure. Moreover, I wondered what would happen to them, particularly when Inspector Fontaine has his eyes on them. On a side note, I also liked how the author captured the beauty of Brussels in the book.
Overall, I adored “Nowhere Boy” and thought it was an excellent middle-grade novel that I encourage everyone to select and read.
