About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing the stresses of the adult world, from financial struggles and racial inequality to family conflict, and needs a way to process it all through a lens of hope. Set against the backdrop of the 1976 Bastion Point protests in New Zealand, the story follows ten-year-old Conrad as he attempts to fix his family's problems by making a deal with Tane, the Maori god of the forest. It is a poignant exploration of cultural identity and the burden children often carry when they feel responsible for the happiness of the grown-ups around them. While the book deals with heavy themes like systemic racism and financial hardship, it remains deeply grounded in a child's imaginative perspective. Conrad is a humorous and relatable narrator who uses his 'magical thinking' to navigate a world that feels increasingly unfair. It is an excellent choice for kids aged 8 to 12 who enjoy historical fiction with a mix of heart, humor, and a touch of mythology. Parents will appreciate the way it fosters empathy and opens doors for conversations about justice and personal heritage.
