At the Sign of the Sugared Plum

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling that the world is unpredictable or when they are showing a deep interest in how people survived difficult times in history. It is a perfect choice for middle grade readers who enjoy historical immersion but need a story grounded in strong family connections and resilience. The story follows Hannah, a country girl who moves to London in 1665 to help her sister run a sweetshop, only to find the city gripped by the Great Plague. While the setting is intense, the emotional core focuses on the bond between sisters and the courage found in small, daily actions. It provides a safe way to explore themes of anxiety and survival through a historical lens. Parents will appreciate the vivid period details, from the recipes for sugared plums to the grim reality of the Red Cross on the door, making it both an educational and deeply human reading experience for ages 10 to 14.