A moving and hopeful story about friendship, courage, family and finding a new home.

Thirteen-year-old Samim loves chess and his life in Afghanistan—until war forces him to flee with his best friend, Zayn. After a dangerous journey, Samim arrives in the UK and must try to build a new life while waiting to discover whether he can stay.

To have a future, Samim must first tell his story.

Winner of the Jhalak Children's & YA Prize 2026

Book of the Year by Writers of Colour in the UK and Ireland

Winner of the FCBG Children's Book Award 2026: Books for Older Readers

Pickled Pepper Guest Bookseller Tasneem Abdur-Rashid says: "In today's political climate, this book is more important than ever. Samim's dangerous journey from Afghanistan to the UK gives readers an important and authentic insight into the real experiences of refugees and asylum seekers, including loss, displacement, bullying and the uncertainty of trying to find somewhere safe to call home."