Angel in Charge

A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a new level of responsibility or feeling anxious about a parent being away. It's a perfect story to build confidence and model problem-solving skills in a safe, humorous context. The book follows 10-year-old Angel and her younger brother Rags, who are left with a kind but completely ineffective babysitter when their mother leaves town for a few days. A series of home-based crises, from a snowstorm to a broken furnace, forces Angel to step up and take charge. It explores themes of resilience, independence, and sibling bonds with warmth and humor. Ideal for ages 8 to 11, it validates a child's capability and shows that they can handle more than they think.