Features for Teachers: My Name Is Samim Teacher Resource Pack

‘A book that should be available in every school’
– Lisa Thompson, author of Goldfish Boy

Are you a teacher looking for a book to inspire your class and foster empathy? It’s more important than ever to encourage open and sensitive discussion with young people about potentially difficult subjects like war, displacement and refugees. My Name Is Samim by Fidan Meikle is a great choice for a class reader to prompt discussion of these topics and more with classes in upper primary or lower secondary school.

This learning resource pack has been created by the author to help teachers lead insightful class discussions and activities based on the book. Activities are suitable for pupils aged 10+.

Fidan Meikle is available for school visits. Email us on marketing@florisbooks.co.uk for more info.

Did you know you can get funding for author visits in Scotland with the Live Literature funding scheme? Find out how to apply via the Scottish Book Trust, or find Fidan in the Live Literature directory.

Praise for My Name Is Samim

‘Shines a light on the challenges that face so many’
– Amnesty International UK

‘Meikle’s debut is a powerful story of resilience, adaptability and hope.’
– The Guardian

About the Book

Thirteen-year-old Samim is a loyal friend, a gifted chess player – and a refugee. After his family is killed in a bombing, he makes a long, dangerous journey from Afghanistan to the UK. But even then his safety isn’t guaranteed: Samim must tell his story to convince the authorities to let him stay for good, all while starting school, facing bigoted bullies and trying to make new friends. Will Samim be granted asylum and allowed to stay in his new home?

About Fidan Meikle

Fidan Meikle is an Azerbaijani-British writer and linguist based in Scotland who writes stories and poems for readers of all ages. Her poetry has found homes in publications like Scottish PEN’s PENing, Sunday Morning at the River, Motherlore, and SpellBound Books. Her debut novel, My Name Is Samim, is inspired by the true story of a young refugee’s courageous journey to safety. When she’s away from her keyboard, Fidan enjoys cooking her favourite Azerbaijani dishes or exploring the stunning Scottish Highlands with her husband, kids, and their cockapoo.