About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking difficult questions about global conflict, the meaning of 'home,' or why some people face barriers that others do not. This story is an essential tool for navigating the concept of systemic injustice through the lens of a granddaughter's fierce love for her family. It provides a human face to a complex geopolitical reality, making it a profound choice for developing empathy and a sense of social justice. Hayaat's journey through the West Bank to Jerusalem is a quest fueled by the belief that a handful of soil can heal her grieving grandmother. While the backdrop involves checkpoints and curfews, the heart of the story is about the resilience of the human spirit and the bonds of friendship. It is appropriate for middle schoolers and early teens who are ready to engage with realistic, high-stakes storytelling that balances the harshness of life with moments of humor, hope, and unwavering determination.
