City of Thieves

Reach for this book when your child starts feeling like their niche interests or quirks make them an outsider. It is a perfect choice for the young hobbyist who finds more comfort in collections and science than in the social pressures of the playground. The story follows Max, a boy whose insect collection is magically transported to a hidden, miniature city where his knowledge of bugs becomes a heroic asset. Through this adventure, the book explores themes of bravery, the importance of teamwork, and the discovery that what makes you different can also make you a leader. It is an ideal bridge for elementary readers moving from picture books into more complex fantasy worlds. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's natural curiosity while modeling how to step up when others are in need. It turns a solitary passion into a source of strength and connection.