Books Refugee Boy Author: Benjamin Zephaniah

Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah is a moving and socially resonant novel that follows the journey of Alem Kelo, a teenage boy caught between two warring nations—Ethiopia and Eritrea. In a desperate bid to protect him, Alem’s father leaves him in London, hoping he’ll find safety and a future far from the violence of home.

Alone in a foreign country, Alem must navigate the British asylum system, endure the emotional toll of separation from his family, and confront the prejudices and bureaucratic hurdles that define the refugee experience. Despite these challenges, Alem’s resilience, intelligence, and kindness shine through, making him a deeply sympathetic and inspiring protagonist.

Zephaniah, known for his poetic voice and activism, brings authenticity and urgency to the story. Through Alem’s eyes, readers gain insight into:

The emotional and legal struggles of asylum seekers

The impact of war and displacement on children

The importance of friendship, community, and advocacy

The universal longing for safety, dignity, and identity

Written with clarity and compassion, Refugee Boy is ideal for young adult readers, educators, and anyone interested in human rights and global justice. For Kenyan audiences, the novel resonates with regional experiences of migration, conflict, and the pursuit of peace.