When The World Turned Upside Down

Set during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, When the World Turned Upside Down follows four friends—Shayla, Liam, Ai, and Ben—who live in the same apartment building. As their school closes and the world changes dramatically, they each face personal and familial challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. Together, they decide to support their community by assisting neighbors and addressing social issues, including the emerging conversations about race and justice sparked by events in their city. Through their collective efforts, they discover the power of friendship, empathy, and activism in times of crisis.

Recommendation: This timely and heartfelt novel is recommended for readers aged 9–13 who are interested in contemporary stories that explore themes of friendship, community engagement, and social justice. K. Ibura delivers a narrative that resonates with the current experiences of young readers, encouraging discussions about empathy, activism, and resilience. Amazon Editors Pick - Best books ages 9-12.

Ideal for:

• Middle-grade readers seeking relatable stories set during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Educators and parents looking for literature that addresses social issues and community involvement
• Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives focusing on friendship and personal growth

Similar Reads:

• A Place at the Table by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan
• From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks
• New Kid by Jerry Craft

Stylistic Features:

• Third-person narrative providing insights into each character's perspective
• Realistic portrayal of contemporary events and their impact on young individuals
• Emphasis on dialogue and interactions that highlight community dynamics

Content Warnings: The novel addresses themes related to the COVID-19 pandemic, social justice protests, and family challenges, which are presented thoughtfully and may prompt important discussions among readers.

When the World Turned Upside Down has been praised for its authentic depiction of young people's experiences during unprecedented times and its emphasis on the importance of community and activism.