Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress

Reach for this book when your daughter is navigating the messy transition to middle school and seems to be constantly 'at odds' with the world. It is the perfect choice for a child who is fundamentally good-hearted but impulsive, whose 'big' personality and quick temper are suddenly getting her into trouble with teachers, parents, and long-time friends. The story follows eighth-grader Brett McCarthy as her life unravels after a series of misunderstandings and a falling out with her best friend. Through Brett's authentic and often humorous voice, the book explores themes of identity, the pain of being left out, and the difficult process of taking responsibility for one's actions. It is a realistic, secular look at the 12 to 15 age range that validates how confusing it feels when the social rules you used to know suddenly change without warning.