Agnes the Sheep

Reach for this book when your middle-grader is struggling with a commitment that has become more difficult or less 'fun' than they originally anticipated. It is an ideal choice for children who respond well to humor when processing lessons about reliability and the complexities of adult-child trust. The story follows Belinda and Joe, two teenagers who inherit a notoriously ill-tempered sheep from an eccentric neighbor, forcing them into a chaotic adventure to protect the animal from those who would do it harm. Through the absurdity of chasing a grumpy sheep, the book explores themes of teamwork, accountability, and the realization that doing the right thing often requires significant grit. It is a lighthearted yet meaningful read for ages 9 to 12 that validates the frustration of responsibility while celebrating the character growth that comes with seeing a job through to the end.