For fourteen-year-old Alix, life on Hayling Island off the coast of England seems insulated from problems such as war, terrorism and refugees. But then, one day at the beach, Alix and her friend Samir pull a drowning man out of the incoming tide.

Mohammed, an illegal immigrant and student, has been tortured by rebels in Iraq for helping the allied forces and has spent all his money to escape. Desperate not to be deported, Mohammed's destiny now lies in Alix's hands, and she is faced with the biggest moral dilemma of her life. Should she notify the authorities or try to protect Mohammed? How can she keep him safe?

Exciting and thought-provoking, this novel provides a compelling, personal look at a contemporary issue, inspired by true stories and informed by the author's work with refugees and asylum seekers.

Nominated for the Carnegie Medal.