The Pet Project

Reach for this book when your child is starting to notice that other families have different rules, rhythms, or ways of showing affection than your own. It is an ideal choice for the pre-teen who is lobbying for their first major responsibility, such as a dog, or for a child preparing for their first extended trip away from home without parents. The story follows Abigail as she travels to San Francisco with her best friend's family. While she is focused on her secret mission to prove she is responsible enough for a pet, she also experiences the subtle culture shock of living inside someone else's family dynamic. It gently explores themes of belonging, the complexity of friendship, and the realization that 'normal' looks different for everyone. It is a warm, realistic, and age-appropriate look at growing up and widening one's perspective.