Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen

Reach for this book when your child feels stuck in a negative reputation or struggles with the label of being a troublemaker. It is the perfect tool for children who use humor or aggression to mask feelings of loneliness, providing a mirror for those who find it hard to navigate social hierarchies. The story follows Bernice, a self-proclaimed bully whose life is upended when she is sent to live with her aunt, a nun, in a small town. Through Bernice's hilarious and often clumsy attempts to follow her Aunt Meena's 'Plan for Model Citizenship,' the book explores deep themes of redemption, the courage it takes to apologize, and the vulnerability required to make a true friend. It is an excellent choice for children aged 8 to 12 who enjoy funny, high-voice narrators but are ready for a story with significant emotional weight. Parents will appreciate how the book models behavior change without being overly preachy, showing that while reinventing yourself is difficult, it is always possible.