Across a War-Tossed Sea

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a major life transition, feelings of displacement, or the struggle to fit into a new social environment. It is particularly resonant for siblings navigating change together or for children who feel like 'outsiders' due to their accent, background, or interests. Through the eyes of Wes and Charles, two British brothers sent to Virginia during WWII, the story explores the heavy weight of homesickness alongside the grit required to build a new identity. While set against the backdrop of war, the heart of the story is about the resilience of the young spirit. It addresses complex themes like racial segregation in the American South and the pressure to excel at unfamiliar sports (like baseball) to gain peer acceptance. It is ideal for ages 10 to 14, offering a realistic but ultimately empowering look at how we carry our roots with us while growing in new soil. Parents will appreciate the historical depth and the way it models brotherly support during times of crisis.