Crooked Kind of Perfect, A

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the 'not-quite-right' feeling of having their expectations fall short of reality. It is a perfect choice for the child who feels like they are settling for second best or who is beginning to notice the quirks and vulnerabilities of the adults in their lives. Zoe Elias dreams of being a piano prodigy but ends up with a wood-grained, two-tiered organ and a father who is too anxious to leave the house. Through Zoe's journey to the Perfectone organ competition, the story explores the beauty found in imperfections and the resilience required to find one's own voice. This gentle, humorous novel is ideal for children ages 8 to 12 who are navigating the social pressures of middle school and the realization that their parents are not always heroic or put-together. It is a comforting reminder that 'crooked' can be its own kind of perfect.