Families who loved Three Wishes: Palestinian and Israeli Children Speak by Deborah Ellis often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your middle schooler or teen begins asking complex questions about war, global headlines, or why people on opposite sides of a conflict struggle to find peace. It provides a direct, humanizing window into the lives of children living in the West Bank and Israel, moving beyond news soundbites to explore the everyday reality of growing up in a conflict zone. By centering the voices of real peers, the book fosters deep empathy and global awareness. Author Deborah Ellis presents interviews with Palestinian and Israeli children who share their dreams, fears, and perspectives. The narratives touch on heavy themes of grief and justice but are grounded in the universal desire for safety and friendship. It is an essential choice for parents looking to build their child's media literacy and emotional intelligence regarding international issues. The tone is realistic and respectful, offering a balanced look at how different backgrounds shape a child's worldview.
