Year of No Rain

Reach for this book when your child begins asking difficult questions about global inequality, the news, or the meaning of home. It is a powerful tool for a preteen who is ready to look beyond their own doorstep and understand the lived experience of displacement and survival. The story follows Stephen, a young Dinka boy in southern Sudan, who must flee into the wilderness with his friends when their village is attacked. While it addresses the heavy realities of war and famine, it centers on the quiet strength of children who must rely on one another to survive. It is a deeply moving exploration of resilience and loyalty that helps young readers develop a global perspective. The prose is sparse and accessible, making it an excellent choice for a middle grade reader who needs a realistic but age appropriate introduction to historical conflict and the refugee experience.