PG
This book, set during the Great Depression, contains emotionally challenging material, including poverty, economic hardship, and child endangerment. There are thematic references to systemic oppression and trauma (e.g., bank closures, violence by train “bulls,” loss of family income), which may impact sensitive readers. Alcohol use at community events is briefly referenced. There are no depictions of explicit language, graphic violence, or sexual acts, but there is one minor reference to sexual threat (concern about being a young girl among male hobos), placing it within SCT. It is suitable for middle grade readers (~10 and up) with guidance due to heavy themes.