About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the pressure of high expectations or feels a heavy sense of responsibility toward their family. It is an ideal choice for a young reader who is transitioning into the complexity of the middle school years and needs to see that resourcefulness and bravery can coexist with deep fear. Hazel Rothbury is a twelve-year-old girl who stows away on the Titanic to find work to support her struggling mother. While the historical tragedy is the backdrop, the heart of the story lies in Hazel's growth from a girl burdened by duty to a young woman who discovers her own agency. The book explores themes of class disparity, friendship across social divides, and the sheer grit required to survive. It is appropriate for ages 8 to 12, offering a gripping narrative that balances historical tension with an empowering emotional arc.
