Like a River

Reach for this book when your middle schooler is beginning to ask deep questions about the cost of war, the nature of courage, and how individuals survive through history's darkest chapters. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels like an outsider or is grappling with the pressure to act brave when they feel anything but. The story follows two young soldiers during the American Civil War, Leander and Polly, the latter of whom is a girl disguised as a boy to serve in the Union Army. Through their eyes, the book explores profound themes of resilience, friendship, and the heavy toll of conflict. While it addresses the grim realities of the era, including hospital conditions and the Sultana steamship disaster, it maintains a focus on the enduring human spirit. It is a powerful tool for parents wanting to move beyond dry history dates and into the emotional heart of what it means to grow up under extraordinary pressure.