Black Duck

Reach for this book when your child is starting to question the black and white rules of childhood and is ready to explore the complicated gray areas of the adult world. It is perfect for the pre-teen who is fascinated by local history, family secrets, or the idea that their own quiet town might have a hidden, adventurous past. Through the eyes of fourteen year old Ruben, the story navigates the dangerous and lawless era of Prohibition in coastal Rhode Island. While the plot centers on rum-running and gang rivalries, the heart of the narrative is about the weight of secrets and the cost of loyalty. It provides a safe space to discuss how good people can get caught up in bad situations. Parents will appreciate the sophisticated storytelling that respects a middle schooler's growing emotional intelligence. It is a gripping historical mystery that balances high-stakes adventure with thoughtful reflections on honesty and the lasting impact of the choices we make in our youth.