Abbie in Stitches

Reach for this book when your child is pushing back against chores, schoolwork, or expectations that feel like they are stealing time from their true interests. Set in the early 1800s, this story follows Abbie, a girl who longs to lose herself in books but is instead required to master the tedious art of needlework. It beautifully captures the internal struggle between duty and passion, making it a perfect tool for discussing how to find joy in things we find difficult or boring. Abbie's journey from frustration to pride offers a gentle lesson in perseverance. It normalizes the feeling of being misunderstood by authority figures while showing how small accomplishments can build self-confidence. For parents of children ages 5 to 9, it provides a historical perspective on expectations that helps kids reflect on their own modern-day responsibilities and the satisfaction of finishing a hard task.