A Place to Belong

Reach for this book when your child is questioning where they belong, especially if they are navigating a dual identity or feeling rejected by their community. It is a profound resource for children who feel like 'outsiders' even in their own country. The story follows twelve year old Hanako, whose family is forced to leave a US internment camp after WWII to start over in a devastated Japan. It explores deep themes of loyalty, the psychological impact of prejudice, and the resilience of the family bond. While the historical setting is specific, the emotional core is universal for any middle schooler facing displacement or cultural confusion. Kadohata manages to balance the harsh realities of post war survival with a tender, hopeful exploration of what makes a place a home. It is best suited for mature readers ages 10 to 14 who are ready to engage with complex questions about justice and identity.