Listening for Lions

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a significant life transition or feels powerless in the face of adult decisions. It is a powerful tool for middle-grade readers who are beginning to understand that the world is not always fair and that adults can sometimes be dishonest. Set in 1918 British East Africa and England, the story follows Rachel Sheridan, a missionary's daughter who loses her parents to the flu epidemic and is subsequently coerced into a deceptive inheritance scheme. Beyond the historical adventure, this novel provides a safe space to explore themes of grief, integrity, and the strength required to reclaim one's own identity. It is an excellent choice for 10 to 14 year olds who enjoy complex moral dilemmas and resilient protagonists who must navigate the world using their own wit and moral compass.