Why? The War Years

Reach for this book when your child starts asking big, complex questions about world events or when they feel a sense of 'echoed' anxiety from the news. It is an ideal bridge for discussing how life continues even during difficult global times. Tomie dePaola captures the essence of a 1940s childhood, where the gravity of World War II filters through the everyday lens of a young boy. The story beautifully balances the weight of air raid drills and blackouts with the comforting rhythms of family life, art, and humor. It provides a roadmap for resilience, showing children that it is okay to feel worried while also finding reasons to laugh and create. This memoir is perfect for the 7 to 10 age range, offering a safe, historical perspective on handling uncertainty without being overwhelming.