After the Ashes

A parent would reach for this book when their child is facing a sudden, life-altering change or a situation that feels completely out of their control. Set against the backdrop of the 1883 eruption of Krakatau, the story follows Katrien, a young girl living in the Dutch East Indies whose world is literally and figuratively blown apart by one of the most violent volcanic events in history. Beyond the historical adventure, it is a profound study of resilience and the human spirit's ability to find light in the darkness. Middle-grade readers will connect with Katrien's journey of self-discovery as she navigates the chaos of a natural disaster while grappling with her own family dynamics and the need to find her voice. It is an excellent choice for discussing how to handle fear and the importance of holding onto hope when the future looks uncertain.