Clues to the Universe

Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate the quiet, heavy terrain of grief or feeling like an outsider in their own school. Set in the 1980s, this story follows Ro, a budding scientist mourning her father, and Benji, a sensitive artist searching for his own. Together, they embark on a quest to build a rocket and find answers to life's biggest mysteries. It is a tender exploration of how shared projects can heal lonely hearts. This novel is ideal for middle grade readers (ages 8 to 12) who appreciate stories about deep friendships and the intersection of logic and creativity. While it deals with the death of a parent, the tone remains grounded and hopeful. Parents will appreciate how it validates the messy process of healing while celebrating the unique talents that make children stand out from the crowd.