Once on This River

A parent might reach for this book when their child is ready to grapple with complex family histories, adoption, or their own cultural identity, particularly when that history involves difficult truths. Set in 1760, "Once on This River" follows eleven-year-old Monday on a sea voyage from Madagascar to New York. She uncovers a devastating family secret that shatters her understanding of her identity and exposes her to the brutal realities of the slave trade. The story thoughtfully explores themes of identity, justice, family secrets, and historical trauma. It is an excellent, though challenging, choice for readers aged 10 to 14, providing a powerful, personal lens through which to understand a dark period of history and begin essential conversations about race and heritage.