Dawn on the Coast

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the emotional tug-of-war of divorce or feeling like they have to choose between two different lives. It is especially helpful for children who feel like they are losing their sense of home when one parent lives far away. The story follows Dawn Schafer as she visits her father and brother in California, only to find herself torn between the sunny, familiar world she left behind and the new life and friends she has built in Connecticut. This realistic novel gently explores themes of belonging, the complexity of blended families, and the realization that growing up often means making difficult choices. Written for the 8 to 12 age range, it provides a safe space for middle grade readers to process feelings of homesickness and the fear of hurting a parent's feelings. It is a comforting choice for any child navigating the 'middle' of a family split.