About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child begins to ask about the weight of real world responsibilities or expresses a desire for independence that feels risky. It is perfect for the pre-teen who is outgrowing childhood games and looking for examples of true courage in the face of complex, adult problems. Set in 1944 Florence, the story follows Paolo, a boy who treats the Nazi occupation of his city as a backdrop for late night bicycle adventures until he is drawn into the very real, very dangerous world of the Italian Resistance. While the setting is historical, the emotional core is timeless: the transition from seeking thrills to understanding sacrifice. Shirley Hughes captures the tension of a family living under a regime where every choice has life-altering consequences. It is age-appropriate for middle schoolers, offering a grounded and realistic look at war that focuses on moral integrity rather than graphic violence. It provides a beautiful bridge for discussing how personal bravery is often quiet and communal rather than loud and solo.
