Safiyyah's War

Set in Nazi-occupied Paris, the story follows young Safiyyah, whose life at the Grand Mosque is upended by the arrival of German forces. As her father and the rector of the mosque begin a secret resistance movement, Safiyyah becomes an active participant, helping to navigate Jewish refugees through the mosque's underground catacombs to safety. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals directly with the Holocaust, persecution, and the threat of execution. The approach is realistic but age-appropriate, focusing more on the tension of hiding and the bond of shared humanity than on graphic violence. The resolution is historically grounded and hopeful, emphasizing the lives saved. EMOTIONAL ARC: It begins with the warmth of community and family, moves into a heavy period of fear and tension as the occupation tightens, and culminates in a breathless, high-stakes series of missions. It ends on a profound note of triumph and moral clarity. IDEAL READER: A thoughtful 10-year-old who is starting to learn about history and feels overwhelmed by the 'bad news' in the world. This child needs to see that even in the darkest times, there are people of different backgrounds working together to do the right thing. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might choose this after their child hears a news report about religious conflict or asks, 'Why didn't anyone stop the bad guys in the past?' PARENT PREP: Parents should be prepared to discuss the historical context of the Holocaust. There is a scene involving the 'Vel d'Hiv Roundup' that is emotionally taxing and may require conversation about why families were being separated. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers (9-10) will focus on the adventure and Safiyyah's bravery. Older readers (12-13) will better grasp the complex interfaith nuances and the immense political risk the mosque took by defying the authorities. DIFFERENTIATOR: Most WWII literature focuses on secular or Christian resistance; this uniquely highlights the vital, often overlooked role of the Muslim community in saving Jewish lives during the Shoah.