Songbird and the Rambutan Tree, The

A parent would reach for this book when their middle schooler is beginning to ask complex questions about global history, human resilience, or how people maintain hope during times of extreme hardship. It is a profound choice for a child who feels overwhelmed by news of current conflicts and needs to see a historical example of the enduring strength of the human spirit. The story follows eleven year old Emmy, a Dutch girl living in Java, as her life is upended by the Japanese occupation during World War II. While the setting is a brutal internment camp, the narrative focuses on Emmy's courage and her use of music as a lifeline. The themes of bravery and friendship are central, providing a bridge to discuss heavy topics like war and loss in a way that emphasizes light over darkness. Because of its mature historical context and depictions of camp conditions, it is best suited for readers aged 10 to 14 who are ready for a realistic but ultimately hopeful exploration of survival.