About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is grappling with intense feelings of guilt, the weight of responsibility, or the painful realization that they cannot always protect the people they love. Set against a backdrop of a city in ruins, this short story serves as an emotional bridge for readers who feel they have failed in a moment of crisis or are struggling with the aftermath of a significant loss. It explores the high cost of personal choices and the heavy burden of leadership through the eyes of a young king. While the setting is a lush, Persian inspired fantasy world, the core of the story is deeply human. It addresses the shame of being 'too late' and the desperation of searching for hope amidst destruction. For ages 13 and up, it offers a sophisticated look at accountability and the resilience required to move forward when everything seems lost.
