About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate shifting social cliques or feels pressured to choose sides in a conflict. It is particularly resonant for children who feel like 'middle-rowers' (those who don't naturally fit into dominant social groups and prefer to stay neutral until their values are tested). Set in 1970 Alabama, the story follows Lu Olivera, an Argentinian-American girl who discovers a talent for track and a new friendship that defies the racial segregation of her classroom. Through Lu's eyes, children learn that staying silent is a choice in itself. This historical novel is an excellent tool for teaching integrity, the courage required for cross-racial friendships, and the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is uncomfortable. It is a gentle yet firm introduction to systemic injustice for readers aged 8 to 12.
