The Enemies of Jupiter

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of responsibility or the desperate desire to fix a fractured family. Set against the backdrop of a 1st-century Roman plague, it explores how children often feel they must carry adult burdens when the world feels like it is falling apart. The story follows four diverse friends summoned to Rome by the Emperor Titus to find the source of a deadly epidemic. Beyond the historical mystery, it is a deep dive into the ethics of choice. Jonathan, one of the protagonists, becomes obsessed with reuniting his parents, leading him to make risky decisions that jeopardize his safety and his friendships. It is an excellent choice for middle-schoolers who enjoy high-stakes adventure but are also ready to discuss the messy reality of family secrets and the consequences of one's actions during a crisis. The book offers a safe space to discuss how we handle fear and the importance of accountability when we make mistakes.