About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the complex transition into late elementary school where friendships become layered and peer pressure begins to mount. It is an ideal choice for children who feel a strong sense of responsibility toward younger siblings or those who are learning how to stand up to a bully without losing their own sense of kindness. Farah Hajjar is a bright, relatable protagonist who loves her Palestinian heritage, her family, and her school, but she faces a difficult choice when her best friend is targeted by a new girl. This story is a gentle yet firm exploration of integrity and the importance of speaking up. It captures the specific anxiety of wanting to protect those we love while also trying to fit in. Parents will appreciate the realistic portrayal of a supportive Arab American family and the way the book models healthy conflict resolution. It is perfectly suited for readers aged 8 to 12 who are ready for a grounded, contemporary story about staying true to yourself when things get rocky.
