Squire

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with the pressure of high expectations or feels they must hide their true self to succeed in a competitive environment. This beautifully illustrated graphic novel follows Aiza, a young girl from a marginalized background who joins a military academy with dreams of becoming a knight. However, she soon discovers that the empire she serves is built on systemic prejudice and the erasure of her own people's history. As Aiza navigates the grueling training and the complexities of friendship, she is forced to decide between personal glory and her moral compass. This story explores heavy themes of cultural identity, the cost of assimilation, and the courage required to stand up against injustice. It is a powerful tool for discussing how systemic bias affects individuals and the importance of remaining loyal to one's roots even when the world demands otherwise.