The pupils put pen to paper to write A Handful of Change which follows the journey of two African orphans.
Seven students and teacher Nick Morris dedicated a total of 40 weeks to writing and illustrating the 28-page colour book.
The youngsters then approached local businesses for sponsorship and book printers Anthony Rowe agreed to publish the novel at cost.
All profits from the book will go to the Hawassa Youth Group in Ethiopia which helps orphans, especially those with HIV and aids.
The book was launched on Thursday (November 5) at Mr and Mrs Doak's Bumper Book Shop in Grove Road.
Eastbourne mayor Greg Szanto joined students and staff at the event.
Those behind the project used their free time to compile the novel which also includes a quiz and a piece about the Hawassa Youth Group.
Year 11 student Emily Lonsdale said, "It was a very rewarding experience because we got to help people in other countries."
Other schools and youth groups will be able to buy the book at wholesale prices and then sell it on, investing the profits in their own community-based schemes either in the UK or abroad.