The Dollshop Downstairs

Reach for this book when your child expresses worry about family finances or feels small and powerless in the face of big world events. It is an ideal choice for the creative child who loves to tinker and solve problems through hands-on making. Set in New York City during World War I, the story follows nine-year-old Anna as she watches her parents struggle to keep their doll repair shop afloat when German doll parts become unavailable due to the war. Anna uses her ingenuity to create something entirely new, proving that even a child's contribution can save a family business. This gentle historical novel explores themes of resilience, Jewish heritage, and the transition from play to responsibility. It is perfectly calibrated for the seven to ten age range, offering a hopeful perspective on overcoming hardship through innovation and family unity.