Uprising

Reach for this book when your child is asking big questions about what it means to be a hero or how one person can possibly stand up against a system of unfairness. Uprising tells the true story of Lidia Zakrzewski, a twelve year old girl who transforms from a piano student into a brave courier for the Polish resistance during World War II. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers ready to engage with the complexities of history through a lens of personal agency and moral courage. While the setting is one of the darkest periods in history, the narrative focuses on resilience, the power of music, and the strength found in community. Nielsen expertly balances the tension of a war thriller with deep emotional resonance, exploring how young people maintain their humanity when their world is under siege. It is a powerful tool for parents wanting to discuss empathy, the importance of helping others (even at great personal risk), and the enduring spirit of freedom.