A Small White Scar

Reach for this book when your child or teen is feeling the weight of responsibility, particularly as a 'glass child' or a sibling to someone with high needs. Set against a rugged 1940s Colorado backdrop, the story follows Will, a boy who feels invisible under the shadow of his twin brother, Denny, who has Down syndrome. Driven by a desperate need for a life of his own, Will attempts to run away, only to find Denny following him into the wilderness. This is a deeply empathetic exploration of the guilt, shame, and fierce love that coexist in complicated family dynamics. It handles the nuances of neurodivergence with historical realism while focusing on Will's internal journey toward acceptance and maturity. It is ideal for middle schoolers (ages 10-14) navigating their own identities within a family unit, offering a powerful mirror for those who feel their own needs have been sidelined by the needs of others.