Zellie Blake

When would a parent reach for this book? When their child is facing a tough moral choice and feels pressured by an adult or fears the consequences of doing the right thing. Zellie Blake is a historical novel about an orphaned girl in 1834 who is forced by her cruel employer to spy on the other girls in her boardinghouse. She soon discovers they are secretly organizing for fair working conditions at the textile mill. The story beautifully explores themes of integrity, loyalty, and finding the courage to stand up for justice, even when you are scared and alone. For ages 9 to 13, this book is a powerful conversation starter about ethics and finding your voice.