About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of a secret, the complexity of a 'mean' authority figure, or the heavy burden of guilt. This classic story follows Carrie and her brother Nick, who are evacuated from London to the Welsh countryside during World War II. Living with the strict, bullying Mr. Evans and his timid sister, they find refuge with a group of unconventional friends and a kind housekeeper named Hepzibah who is rumored to be a witch. At its heart, this is a masterful exploration of emotional nuance and the realization that adults are often more complicated than they appear. It deals with the transition from childhood black-and-white thinking to the grey areas of empathy and regret. While set in a historical context, the themes of loyalty and the fear of making an irredeemable mistake are universal. It is an ideal choice for children ages 9 to 13 who are ready for a story with moral depth and 'hushed suspense.'
