Prisoners in the Promised Land

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the realization that history is not always fair or when they are questioning the meaning of citizenship and belonging. This diary-style novel follows Anya, a young Ukrainian immigrant in 1914 Canada, who finds herself and her family branded as enemy aliens and sent to an internment camp in the Canadian wilderness. Through her eyes, readers witness the harsh reality of prejudice and the loss of civil liberties. While the setting is historical, the emotional themes of resilience, family loyalty, and maintaining hope in the face of injustice are timeless. It is best suited for middle schoolers (ages 10 to 14) who are ready to engage with complex social issues. Parents choose this book to help children understand that history has many layers and to foster empathy for those who have faced discrimination because of their heritage.