Discover more books

My Name Is Samim

By Fidan Meikle

After losing everything, Samim must prove he belongs in a country that may not want him.

heartbreaking · hopeful · courageous · immersive

Genres

Adventure Friendship/Family Realistic Fiction

What is My Name Is Samim about?

Thirteen-year-old Samim loves chess, friendship and his home in Afghanistan. But after a bombing destroys his family, he must flee with his best friend, Zayn, and begin a perilous journey towards safety in the UK. Along the way, Samim meets brave people who are also searching for a new home. Now he must face school, bullies and an uncertain future while telling his story to the authorities. Will Samim be allowed to stay and build a life in his new country?

About the author

Fidan Meikle is an Azerbaijani-British writer, poet, linguist and translator who lives in Scotland. She writes thoughtful, hopeful stories and poems for young readers. Her award-winning debut novel, My Name Is Samim, introduces readers to a brave boy finding friendship and belonging. Fidan also wrote the companion novel, My Name Is Zayn.

Pages

296 pages

Reading age

Older Junior (10-15)

This edition

2026

Celebrate every book your child reads

Keep track of the books they've read on Pageticker and watch their reading journey grow.

Pageticker

Ready to get started?

Join thousands of readers discovering their next favourite book