Dragon's Gate

Reach for this book when your middle schooler is grappling with feelings of isolation or is starting to ask complex questions about American history beyond the textbook version. It is an ideal choice for children who feel like 'outsiders' even within their own communities, as it explores the painful gap between expectations and reality. Following fourteen-year-old Otter from China to the Sierra Nevada mountains, the story depicts the brutal conditions Chinese immigrants faced while building the transcontinental railroad. It tackles heavy themes of systemic racism, labor exploitation, and the burden of family legacy. While the setting is historical, the emotional core of finding one's strength in a harsh environment is deeply relevant for any young reader navigating a difficult transition or identity crisis.