Sami and the Time of the Troubles

A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling anxious about news of war or conflict, or when their own world feels uncertain. It tells the story of Sami, a ten-year-old boy living in Beirut during the Lebanese Civil War. The narrative focuses on the small, normal moments of his life like school, chores, and playing with friends, which continue even as his family must periodically retreat to their basement shelter during bombings. This focus on daily routine amidst chaos highlights themes of resilience, family love, and the way children process fear. It is an excellent choice for gently introducing the concept of life during conflict, fostering empathy and normalizing a child's anxieties in a hopeful, humanizing way.