45 pages • 1 hour read
Benjamin ZephaniahRefugee Boy
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2001A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah tells the story of Alem Kelo, a teenage boy escaping the Eritrean-Ethiopian War, who is left in London by his father to seek asylum and escape violence. The novel explores Alem’s experiences with discrimination, the impact of war on families, and the challenges of navigating the immigration system, ultimately finding hope and resilience amid adversity. This book discusses violence, racism, anti-immigrant bias, and the emotional distress experienced by refugees and individuals dealing with familial separation and loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Benjamin Zephaniah's Refugee Boy has been praised for its heartfelt portrayal of a young refugee's struggle, offering a compelling narrative that raises awareness about displacement. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity and emotional depth, though some note that character development feels rushed. Overall, it is a poignant, timely story resonating with readers of all ages.
Who Should Read Refugee Boy?
A reader who would enjoy Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah is typically interested in young adult fiction that tackles themes of identity, family, and resilience amid social and political turmoil. Fans of The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Rauf or Refugee by Alan Gratz would find this book compelling.