About This Book
Reach for this book when your teen is beginning to question authority, exploring their own political voice, or feeling the pressure to conform to social expectations. Set in 1960s Czechoslovakia during the Prague Spring, the story follows fourteen year old Patrik as he navigates the dangerous line between compliance and rebellion under a communist regime. It is a poignant look at how political systems can fracture personal trust and family dynamics. While the historical setting is specific, the emotional core of the book addresses universal adolescent themes of identity, secret keeping, and the weight of moral choices. It is a sophisticated read for middle schoolers that explores the psychological toll of living in a society where anyone could be an informant. Parents will appreciate the way it fosters a deep appreciation for freedom and the courage it takes to protect one's family and beliefs.
