My Name Is Samim

Shortlisted for:
- The Jhalak Children's & YA Prize
- The FCBG Award
- The Sheffield Book Award
- The Literally Brilliant Book Award
- The Hampshire Book Award

Part of the 2026 Read for Empathy Collection

A courageous young refugee survives a desperate journey in this moving but wry middle-grade novel about struggles, hope and friendship.

Thirteen-year-old Samim is a refugee, forced to make a long, dangerous journey from his home in Afghanistan to the UK. But even then his safety isn't guaranteed: Samim must tell his story to convince the authorities to let him stay for good.

Samim relives the perils he faced and remembers the many friends he made and lost – the intrepid girl who dressed as a boy for safety, the courageous grandmother seeking a new home for her nine grandchildren, and especially his funny, spirited, best friend Zayn. Samim is one of the lucky ones, but has he really found a safe new home?

My Name is Samim is a heartbreaking yet hopeful story of courage, resilience and friendship. Highlighting the experiences of young refugees and asylum-seekers, readers will empathise with Samim as he strives for a safe home and a better future. Fidan Meikle is a stunning new voice in middle-grade fiction. Her wry, heartfelt and immersive writing will draw readers into Samim's world.