Good Night, Maman

Reach for this book when your child is navigating the complex emotions of a long distance separation from a loved one or struggling to find their footing in an unfamiliar environment. This moving historical novel follows twelve year old Karin as she transitions from the terrors of war-torn Europe to a refugee shelter in New York. While the setting is historical, the core of the story is deeply personal, focusing on Karin's letters to her mother, whom she had to leave behind. It explores the heavy weight of the 'unknown' and the resilience required to build a new life while the heart remains elsewhere. It is a poignant, realistic choice for middle schoolers ready for a sophisticated look at grief and hope.