Shooting the Moon

Reach for this book when your child is facing the deployment of an older sibling or is struggling to process the complexity of a family member's military service. It provides a comforting yet honest space for children to explore the mixture of pride and fear that comes with military life. Twelve year old Jamie has always been an Army brat, but when her brother TJ heads to Vietnam, her perspective shifts. Through the exchange of rolls of film and letters, Jamie begins to see the human side of war beyond the medals and uniforms. It is a gentle, realistic exploration of growing up and learning that the heroes we love are also vulnerable people. The story is age appropriate for middle grade readers, focusing more on emotional connection and the power of art than the mechanics of combat. It helps normalize the anxiety of waiting and highlights the importance of staying connected through creative means.