Phoenix Brothers

Rise up - find your voice, your light, your liberty

Amir has faced more challenges than any teenager should ever have to, all in the simple quest for survival. And he’s finding out that life in his new country is bringing a whole new set of challenges…

When war brings horror and devastation to Amir’s homeland, he is forced to undertake a gruelling and treacherous journey to safety, alone. Along with his new friend Mo, another young unaccompanied refugee, he is rebuilding his life, while dealing with the events of his past. At his new school, Amir decides to enter a prestigious public speaking competition to help others understand what he’s been through. But can Amir find his voice and reclaim his story?

An inspiring tale of resilience, survival and family from award-winning author Sita Brahmachari, perfect for less-confident readers.

• A moving story of resilience, survival and identity

• Expertly edited to remove barriers to comprehension, making this a perfect read for less-confident readers

• An accessible and exciting story combined with relevant issues to engage and motivate readers

• Includes reading notes at the back of the book and free online resource pack

• Part of the Super-Readable Rollercoasters series, shortlisted for the Teach Secondary Awards 2022 SEND category

Published by Oxford University Press, June 2025

Reviews for Phoenix Brothers

"A beautifully written, moving book showcasing the rarely explored lone child refugee experience with heart. It stirred me." A. M. Dassu  - Award Winning author of 'Boy Everywhere' 

“An incredibly moving story which allows the reader to see the world through the eyes of young people affected by global conflicts.” Jasbinder Bilan, Costa Award Winning author of Asha and The Spirit Bird

“Phoenix Brothers is a vital story, powerfully and movingly told. We see the world through Amir’s eyes as he finds the courage to tell the truth he knows not everyone will want to hear of his journey with his ‘Phoenix Brother’ Mo, as unaccompanied refugees from Iraq to a new life in England. It is a story of loss, cruelty, suffering and fear but also of kindness, beauty, love, and hope. A beautiful, compelling, and important book.” Clare Furniss, author of 'The Things We Leave Behind’, shortlisted for the Yoto Carnegies, 2025.