Castle Hangnail

Reach for this book when your child feels they are constantly being measured against expectations that do not fit who they truly are. It is a perfect choice for the kid who is naturally kind but feels pressured to be tough, or the child who is trying to find their place in a new environment. The story follows Molly, a twelve-year-old who arrives at a crumbling magical castle claiming to be its new Wicked Witch. However, Molly is far from wicked, she is resourceful, empathetic, and secretly terrified of being found out. As she works with a quirky cast of monsters and minions to save their home from being decommissioned by the Bureau of Thaumaturgy, the book explores themes of self-worth, the value of unconventional families, and the courage required to be authentic. It is a gentle, humorous, and deeply comforting read for ages 8 to 12 that validates the idea that your greatest strength might be your heart, even in a world that expects teeth.