City of Orphans

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the idea of unfairness or feels overwhelmed by systems that seem too big to fight. It is a powerful choice for children who are becoming aware of social inequalities, poverty, or the weight of family responsibility. The story follows thirteen-year-old newsboy Maks Geless as he navigates the gritty streets of 1893 New York to prove his sister's innocence after she is wrongly imprisoned. While it deals with heavy themes like homelessness and systemic corruption, the narrative is anchored by the unwavering bond of an immigrant family and the grit of young people who refuse to give up. It offers a realistic yet deeply empowering look at how resilience and friendship can illuminate even the darkest corners of history. Best suited for middle grade readers ready for a high stakes mystery with emotional depth.