Rescued

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the complexities of justice, the pain of a family divorce, or a deep sense of responsibility toward the natural world. It is a powerful choice for children who feel that grown-up decisions are unfair and are looking for a way to reclaim their own agency in a changing world. John has grown up alongside Raja, an orangutan his father brought home from Indonesia. When his parents divorce and his father sells Raja to a roadside zoo, John refuses to accept this betrayal. He embarks on a dangerous journey to rescue his 'brother' and return him to a sanctuary in Indonesia. Through this adventure, the story explores heavy themes of animal ethics, the fallout of divorce, and the transition from childhood obedience to moral independence. It is most appropriate for readers aged 8 to 12 who are ready for a realistic, sometimes intense look at the bonds that define us.