Night of the Twisters

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a fear of storms or natural disasters, or when they are ready to explore themes of responsibility and courage during a crisis. Based on the true 1980 Grand Island tornado outbreak, this story follows 12-year-old Danny as he protects his baby brother and best friend during a catastrophic weather event. It is an excellent choice for normalizing the intense feelings of panic and uncertainty that come with emergencies while focusing on the practical steps and emotional strength needed to find safety. While the descriptions of the storm's aftermath are realistic, the story centers on the resilience of family and the importance of community support, making it a grounding read for middle-grade students navigating their own anxieties about the world around them.