Shanghai Shadows

Reach for this book when your teen is navigating a major life transition, feeling displaced, or struggling to maintain their identity in a new environment. While set during World War II, the emotional core of the story speaks to any young person facing the loss of 'normalcy' and the need to find strength in family when the world feels unpredictable. It is an excellent choice for discussing how heritage and hope can coexist with hardship. The story follows the Ilutovich family, Jewish refugees who flee Nazi-occupied Europe for the unlikely sanctuary of Shanghai, China. Through the eyes of young Ilse, readers experience the cramped quarters of the Hongkew ghetto, the clash of cultures, and the terrifying shadow of Japanese occupation. This historical fiction novel is appropriate for ages 12 to 16, offering a sophisticated look at a lesser-known chapter of Holocaust history while emphasizing resilience and the power of small acts of bravery.