CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD

We are delighted to share the exciting news that My Name is Samim by Fidan Meikle has been named the winner of the 2026 Children's Book Awards in the Longer Novels for Older Readers category.

This is a well-deserved achievement for a powerful and unforgettable novel that has become a favourite in our library. Many of our students have been deeply moved by Samim's story, and we are thrilled to see it receive national recognition.

My Name is Samim follows the extraordinary journey of Samim, a 13-year-old boy who is forced to flee his home in Afghanistan. Alone and separated from his family, he embarks on a perilous journey that takes him across Iran, Turkey, Greece, Italy, and France before finally reaching the United Kingdom. Along the way, Samim faces immense hardship, including dangerous border crossings, uncertainty, and time spent in detention centres. His journey lasts more than three years, testing his courage, resilience, and hope at every stage.

At our library, My Name is Samim has sparked many conversations about identity, belonging, resilience, and human rights. Its recognition at the 2026 Children's Book Awards highlights not only its literary quality but also the importance of stories that help us understand the lives and experiences of others.

If you haven't yet read My Name is Samim, we highly recommend borrowing a copy from the library. Congratulations to Fidan Meikle on this outstanding achievement, and to everyone who voted for and supported this remarkable book. It is a truly deserving winner and one that we hope will continue to inspire readers for many years to come.