Under the Persimmon Tree

A parent might reach for this book when their child is beginning to ask complex questions about global news, the realities of war, or the experiences of refugees. It is an essential choice for families looking to cultivate global empathy and understand the human stories behind historical headlines. The story follows Najmah, a young Afghan girl, and Nusrat, an American Muslim teacher, whose lives intersect in Pakistan following the start of the 2001 Afghan War. Through their eyes, the book explores profound themes of grief, resilience, and the universal need for belonging. While it depicts the harsh realities of conflict, it is grounded in hope and the beauty of cross-cultural friendship. This book is best suited for mature readers aged 10 to 14 who are ready for a realistic, deeply moving look at life in a different part of the world. It provides a bridge for parents to discuss how people maintain their humanity and kindness even in the most difficult circumstances.