About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that the world is not always fair or when they express frustration with rules that seem to protect some people while hurting others. This Thai-inspired fantasy is a masterful entry point for discussing systemic inequality and the courage required to stand up for justice. It follows Pong, a boy born in a prison who escapes only to find that the outside world is ruled by a Governor who controls the city through the literal and metaphorical distribution of light. Through Pong's journey and that of his pursuer, Nok, children will explore themes of redemption, class struggle, and the difference between following the law and doing what is right. While the book addresses heavy topics like poverty and oppression, it maintains a hopeful, fast-paced adventure tone that makes it accessible for middle-grade readers. It is an excellent choice for building empathy and helping children understand their own agency in creating a brighter future.
