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A review by wintrovia
The Boy At the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf
5.0
This a very nicely written story that introduces children to the idea of refugees needing help in a personal and emotionally engaging way. It's not preachy or even particularly political but it does help to put a human face to an issue that is often discussed in abstract, statistical terms.
I noticed another reviewer accuse the author of having transphobic views, which raises a question over whether it's OK to enjoy her work or not. I don't know the answer if I'm honest. A quick search reveals some quotes from a speech which I thoroughly disagree with but I don't feel like I need to agree with everything an author believes to enjoy their work. But there's a line too and I genuinely don't know if she's crossed it by airing opinions which I find to be pretty nasty (assuming the quotes are genuine).
I think this book, taken on its own merits, is a force for good in the world, as it helps spread the idea of tolerance and helping those in need. On that basis this is a five star book even though the author potentially has views I find problematic.
I noticed another reviewer accuse the author of having transphobic views, which raises a question over whether it's OK to enjoy her work or not. I don't know the answer if I'm honest. A quick search reveals some quotes from a speech which I thoroughly disagree with but I don't feel like I need to agree with everything an author believes to enjoy their work. But there's a line too and I genuinely don't know if she's crossed it by airing opinions which I find to be pretty nasty (assuming the quotes are genuine).
I think this book, taken on its own merits, is a force for good in the world, as it helps spread the idea of tolerance and helping those in need. On that basis this is a five star book even though the author potentially has views I find problematic.