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The Star Outside My Window

By Onjali Q. Raúf

When Mum vanishes, Aniyah follows the stars straight to London and a famous surprise.

heartfelt adventurous inspiring

Pageticker community rating

Average score: 4.4

From 5 readers

What do our readers think of The Star Outside My Window? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children find Aniyah brave and the adventure exciting, especially the star-hunting mission and the funny moments with Noah. Some children feel the story is quite sad or a little long, but they still find it moving and hopeful.

What does the Pageticker team say about The Star Outside My Window?

The Star Outside My Window combines a gripping adventure with a tender exploration of grief, domestic abuse and the ways children make sense of frightening change. Onjali Q. Raúf writes with warmth, humour and plenty of heart.

Genres

Adventure Friendship/Family Feelings/Wellbeing

What is The Star Outside My Window about?

Ten year old Aniyah and her younger brother, Noah, are placed in foster care after their mother's sudden disappearance. Convinced that her mum has become a star, Aniyah embarks on a daring adventure to prove it, involving the Royal Observatory in London and an unexpected encounter with a Hollywood celebrity. This heartfelt tale explores themes of loss, hope, and resilience through the innocent eyes of a child.

About the author

Onjali Q. Raúf is a bestselling British author who loves writing stories about friendship, kindness, and hope. She is best known for her popular book 'The Boy at the Back of the Class', which tells the story of a new boy at school. Onjali enjoys inspiring children to read, write, and help others.

Discussion ideas around The Star Outside My Window

Star Hunter: Why do you think Aniyah believes her mum has become a star, and what does that idea mean to her?

Being Brave: Which choices show Aniyah’s courage, and how is her bravery different from simply taking risks?

New Families: How do Aniyah and Noah’s feelings about foster care change as they get to know the people around them?

Hope: What helps Aniyah keep going when life feels confusing or frightening?

Real-World Help: Why is it important for children who feel unsafe or worried to have trusted adults they can talk to?

Pages

306 pages

Reading age

Older Junior (10-15)

This edition

2019

First published

2019

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