The Romeo and Juliet Code

Reach for this book when your child feels left out of important family conversations or is struggling with a sense of displacement after a major move. It is a comforting but intellectually stimulating read for children who feel that adults are keeping secrets 'for their own good' and who need to see their own curiosity validated. Set during World War II, the story follows Felicity Bathburn, who is sent from London to the coast of Maine to live with eccentric relatives she barely knows. As she uncovers coded letters and family mysteries, she navigates themes of loneliness, trust, and the complexity of adult relationships. It is perfectly pitched for the upper elementary years, offering a safe space to explore the anxiety of being 'the new kid' while celebrating the power of written words and sharp wit.