Coram Boy

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is asking deep questions about social justice, the value of a human life, or the historical origins of systemic cruelty. This powerful stage adaptation of Jamila Gavin's novel plunges readers into the dark underbelly of 18th-century England, following the intertwined fates of abandoned children and the corrupt 'Coram Men' who prey on them. It is a story of profound sadness and staggering injustice, but it is also an exploration of how friendship and music can serve as beacons of hope in the darkest times. While the play deals with heavy themes including child endangerment and class-based oppression, it provides a safe, structured way for older teens to process difficult history. You might choose this for a child who enjoys historical fiction and is ready for a gritty, realistic portrayal of the past. It serves as a bridge to discussing ethics, the responsibility of the wealthy toward the poor, and the resilience of the human spirit.