Beats Me, Claude

Reach for this book when your child is feeling the weight of their own mistakes or needs a lighthearted way to discuss the concept of found family and belonging. It is a perfect choice for a child who enjoys silly humor but might also be navigating feelings of loneliness or wondering where they fit in. This Texas tall tale follows Shirley, whose disastrous attempts at baking lead to unexpected adventures with outlaws and wild animals. While the story is packed with slapstick humor and frontier grit, the emotional core centers on the arrival of a lonely orphan boy. Through the lens of a historical tall tale, it explores resilience, the joy of unexpected connections, and how a family can be formed in the most surprising ways. It is a wonderful read-aloud for children ages 4 to 8, offering both a good laugh and a heartwarming resolution about finding a place to call home.