U FIC COE 13+

The Alchemist (1988) is a philosophical novel follows Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd who dreams of finding treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. Guided by mysterious omens and mentors, including a wise alchemist, he learns that true fulfillment lies in pursuing one’s Personal Legend — the path meant for each individual. The journey takes him across deserts and through trials that reveal the importance of faith, perseverance, and self-discovery. Blending allegory and mysticism, the book explores how the universe conspires to help those who follow their dreams.

Realistic Fiction U FIC RAU

The Boy at the Back of the Class (2018) follows nine-year-old Ahmet, a Syrian refugee who arrives at Mrs Khan’s classroom and sits quietly at the back, while his new classmates become curious about his strange behaviour and silence. His classmates discover that Ahmet has fled a real war and has lost his family, so they band together to launch an ambitious rescue mission to help him reunite with his loved ones. The story balances laughter and heart-breaking reality as the children’s plan unfolds—with school bullies, the media and even the Queen getting involved. At its core, it’s an uplifting tale about kindness, friendship, and how ordinary children can make a brave difference in the world.

Realistic Fiction U FIC MAR

Nowhere Boy (2018) Fourteen-year-old Ahmed, a Syrian refugee who has lost his father on the perilous journey to Europe, finds himself stranded in Brussels, alone and with no one to trust. Thirteen-year-old Max, an American boy uprooted to Belgium and struggling to belong, discovers Ahmed hiding in the basement of his family’s new home. As their lives collide, they form an unlikely friendship and embark on a daring journey through fear, prejudice and bureaucracy to help Ahmed find his father and regain hope. Set against the very real backdrop of the refugee crisis, the novel explores themes of courage, empathy, and what it means to find a place to call home.