The Teacher of Nomad Land

Nayeri (The Bizarre Bazaar) considers the effects of WWII on two Iranian children in a heart-piercing historical novel. Following the death of Babak’s educator father from British cannon fire in 1941 Iran, the 13-year-old takes guardianship of his eight-year-old sister Sana. They join a group of travelers migrating through the Zagros Mountains who briefly allow the siblings to stay with them on the condition that Babak, carrying his father’s books and blackboard, teaches the other children English. Unable to wrangle the students, Babak and Sana are forced to travel to the city of Ahvaz on their own. On their journey they encounter Vulf, a threatening stranger searching for a Jewish child named Ben; after sneaking away from Vulf, the duo meets Ben, who joins them on their trek. As the children navigate each harrowing obstacle, Babak holds close wise words from his father, which drive the teen to persevere: “That is the teacher’s job—to make the world understandable in parts.” Babak’s palpable love for his sister emphasizes the novel’s suggestion that there is power in kindness, even in the face of tragedy. Lush details and taut plotting distinguish this immersive, profound offering. Ages 8–12. Agent: Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary. (Aug.)