Looking for a great book to read this fall for kids and teens? Check out this Middle Read selection for 2025. The Middle Read A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat lifts up many issues and leads to great conversations with anyone who has read it or is reading it.
Here's a summary from the publisher: A boy on the run. A girl determined to find him. A compelling fantasy looks at issues of privilege, protest, and justice. All light in Chattana is created by one man--the Governor, who appeared after the Great Fire to bring peace and order to the city. Set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world, Christina Soontornvat's twist on Victor Hugo's Les Misérables is a dazzling, fast-paced adventure that explores the difference between law and justice--and asks whether one child can shine a light in the dark.
Discussion
points to use in a classroom or book club:
Justice vs. Law: Just because something is legal doesn't mean it's right.
Light vs. Dark / good vs. evil: Light is an important character in this story with light orbs.
Faith, Hope & Bravery: Pong and others have faith that they will escape the prison. It takes courage to stand up to those more powerful than oneself.
Power: Can power be used for good or just evil?
Christina Soontornvat is coming to Muskegon on March 26th for a school-based author talk. More details to come!
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