Cub

Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate the shark-infested waters of middle school social hierarchies or feels like they are being overlooked by their peers. This graphic memoir follows Cindy, a seventh-grader in the 1970s who feels small and invisible until she lands a role as a cub reporter for her local newspaper. Through her mentorship with a professional journalist, she discovers that her keen powers of observation are not just a quirk, but a professional superpower. It is a brilliant resource for children dealing with bullying and the pressure to fit in. The story beautifully illustrates how finding an external passion or hobby can provide the necessary perspective and armor to survive the social trials of junior high. Parents will appreciate the historical context of the 1970s, which provides a safe distance to discuss timeless issues like self-confidence, finding your voice, and standing up for what is right.