Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Themes
Synopsis
In 1944, when her brother is overseas fighting in World War II, eleven-year-old Margaret changes her mind about the school bully, Gordy, after she discovers he is hiding his own brother, a deserter. "There is plenty of action and page-turning suspense (and) much to ponder and reflect on as well." -- School Library Journal, starred review
Is Stepping on the Cracks appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
Middle grade historical novel about a girl who learns empathy when she discovers the school bully is hiding his deserter brother during WWII. Addresses wartime themes and conscientious objection with age-appropriate sensitivity.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death of parent, war, and abandonment (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
An engaging story about discovering that people aren't always what they seem and learning to stand up for what's right during wartime.