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Description
On his tenth birthday, Amil is torn from his family and taken to work for Mr Kumar and his cruel son, Jalesh, at their dilapidated printing business. Book has violence and substance abuse.
Quick Summary
Set in the shadow of the Bhopal disaster, this novel follows ten-year-old Amil when he's taken from his family and thrust into a grim printing shop run by the ruthless Mr. Kumar and his bully son Jalesh. Readers watch him survive grueling days of ink-stained work, daring escapes, and small acts of kindness that hint at hope beneath the oppression. The story is gritty and fast-paced, perfect for kids who like real-world stakes and characters who have to think on their feet, though parents should be aware that it contains moments of violence and references to substance use. It's a good pick for fans of stories like The Breadwinner, where a child's bravery shines despite harsh circumstances, and it offers a glimpse into a piece of Indian history that feels both personal and historical. If you're looking for a book that mixes adventure with a serious backdrop and shows how even the youngest voices can resist injustice, this one delivers.