About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as a cross-country move or a change in family structure, and needs a protagonist who meets upheaval with fierce independence. Set during World War II, the story follows Lydia, a spunky and often difficult girl who travels from Romania to Palestine to reunite with her father. It explores the messy reality of divorce and the feeling of being an outsider with refreshing honesty. Lydia is not a typical polite heroine. She uses her vivid imagination and a streak of defiance to navigate a world that feels out of her control. Parents will appreciate how the book validates a child's right to be angry or stubborn during times of crisis. While it is set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, the focus remains on Lydia's personal journey and her internal world. It is an excellent choice for 8 to 12 year olds who appreciate realistic characters who aren't afraid to break the rules.
