A Bandit's Tale

Reach for this book when your child starts asking questions about fairness, social justice, or why some people have so much while others have so little. It is an ideal choice for a young reader who is developing a social conscience and needs to see that even a child in difficult circumstances can make a meaningful impact on the world. Set in the gritty streets of 1880s New York, the story follows Rocco, an Italian immigrant who is forced into a life of petty crime to survive. As he navigates the hardships of poverty and exploitation, he eventually finds his voice as a reformer and advocate for animal rights and child welfare. While the historical setting is vivid and sometimes harsh, the core message is one of resilience and the power of empathy to transform a life. It is best suited for readers aged 9 to 12 who are ready for a realistic look at history.