Meet Pearlie

Reach for this book if your child is struggling with the pain of community prejudice or feeling the pressure of 'cliques' that exclude a friend based on their background. Set in 1941 Darwin, Australia, it follows Pearlie as she navigates the rising tensions of World War II. When her best friend Naoko is targeted because of her Japanese heritage, Pearlie must decide whether to follow the crowd or stand up for what is right. It is a gentle but firm exploration of loyalty, courage, and historical justice for children aged 8 to 12. You might choose this to help a child understand how global events affect local friendships and the importance of being an upstander during difficult times.