The Deadly Flu

A parent might reach for this book when helping a child process the realities of a widespread illness or when exploring historical events that echo modern challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. "The Deadly Flu" is a historical novel set in 1919 Melbourne, Australia, during the Spanish Flu pandemic. The story follows a young, capable girl named Posie who must care for her family and neighbors when the illness strikes her community. It directly addresses themes of fear, grief, and loss, but powerfully highlights resilience, kindness, and community cooperation. Appropriate for ages 9-12, this book provides a safe, historical lens to discuss difficult topics, normalizing fear while modeling bravery and empathy in the face of a crisis.