Journey to Topaz

Reach for this book when your child is beginning to question the fairness of the world or needs to see how family bonds can withstand external injustice. It provides a vital perspective for children who are ready to move beyond black and white views of history and grapple with the complexities of systemic prejudice and resilience. Through the eyes of eleven year old Yuki Sakane, the story depicts the forced relocation and incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. The narrative follows Yuki's journey from her comfortable life in Berkeley to the harsh, dusty barracks of the Topaz internment camp. While the historical backdrop is heavy, the focus remains on the emotional reality of a child: the pain of a father being taken away, the struggle to find beauty in a bleak environment, and the quiet strength found in community. It is a realistic yet ultimately hopeful exploration of a dark chapter in American history, perfect for middle grade readers developing their social consciousness.