Biography
Onjali Q. Raúf, author of The Boy at the Back of the Class, worked as an Assistant Editor for emel magazine; was the Campaigns Manager for Women for Women International UK, and currently works on behalf of a number of regional and international human rights charities and research bodies. She is also Founder and CEO of Making Herstory: a self-styled human rights organisation working in partnership with other movements to end the abuse, trafficking and enslavement of women and girls worldwide. She has been shortlisted for the Care2Impact award, and the Emma Humphreys Award for her works in the women’s rights sector.
Shortlisted Books by Onjali Q. Raúf
The Boy at the Back of the Class
Raúf's book is at once tearjerking and chuckle-inducing and will go a long way to restore faith in human nature.
Sunday Post
The Boy at the Back of the Class is the story of new boy Ahmet, a refugee from Syria, told from the point of view of an anonymous classmate. One who goes to (at times) hilarious lengths to make friends and give Ahmet a sense of belonging. The unexpected adventure that follows strikes the perfect balance between humour and poignancy, topped off with a terrific twist. The result is an unforgettable story that will find a home in the heart of every child.
Onjali Q. Raúf portrays the refugee crisis through the eyes of a child in a way that’s accessible, warm and funny. It’s a story about friendship and how naturally children celebrate, rather than fear, all our differences.
This book was shortlisted in: 2020
