About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a complicated family legacy, the weight of a parent's absence, or the sting of feeling like an outsider due to their heritage. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows Jay Thacker as he moves to a small Utah town while his father is missing in action. It is a poignant exploration of how we construct our identities and the stories we tell ourselves to cope with grief and social prejudice. Through Jay's friendship with a boy in a nearby Japanese internment camp, the narrative gently but firmly addresses systemic racism and the nuance of American history. This is an excellent choice for middle schoolers ready for a realistic look at historical injustice and personal growth. It provides a safe space to discuss the difference between who we want to be and the truths we must eventually face about our families and our country.
