City of Light, City of Dark

Reach for this book when your child is beginning to question their own history or feels overwhelmed by the responsibility of doing what is right even when it is difficult. This urban fantasy follows two children, Sarah and Carlos, as they race to save their city from a permanent, frozen darkness threatened by an ancient pact and a greedy villain. It is a story about the weight of secrets and the power of young people to protect their community. The narrative explores themes of resilience, the complexity of truth, and the importance of teamwork. Its unique hybrid format, blending traditional prose with Brian Floca's dynamic illustrations, makes it an accessible yet emotionally resonant choice for middle-grade readers. Parents will appreciate how it frames individual bravery as a necessary component of civic duty, while also touching on the personal discovery of one's own heritage and identity.