About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with profound grief, the disappearance of a loved one, or the confusing feelings that arise when siblings process trauma differently. Set in 1988 Gaza City, it follows eleven-year-old Malaak, who retreats into silence and the company of a small bird after her father disappears while seeking work in Israel. The story explores the delicate balance between a mother's desperate hope and a brother's growing anger. While it deals with the harsh realities of conflict, it is ultimately a sensitive exploration of finding one's inner voice and the resilience of the human spirit. It is best suited for mature middle-grade readers who are ready to discuss how external political pressures can fracture or fortify a family unit.
