About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to push for independence or feels the pressure of entering a more adult world. It is an ideal choice for a middle schooler who is navigating the transition from a cocky adolescent to a more grounded, responsible young person. Set in the 1920s, the story provides a window into a time of immense social change, making it perfect for kids who are wrestling with their own sense of identity and place in a changing environment. The story follows Young Fu as he moves from the country to the bustling city of Chungking to begin a coppersmith apprenticeship. Through his eyes, readers experience the grit and reward of hard work, the consequences of arrogance, and the complexities of life in a city on the brink of revolution. It is a rich, realistic look at maturing through trial and error, offering parents a way to discuss integrity, financial reality, and the value of mentorship.
