Curse of the Stolen Diamond

Reach for this book when you have a reluctant reader who feels more at home in a digital sandbox than in a library. It is particularly effective for children who struggle with feelings of inadequacy or the pressure to fit in among peers. By using the familiar lens of Minecraft, the story validates a child's gaming interests while introducing important themes of personal integrity and the weight of making a mistake. The story follows Zack Zombie as he navigates the social hierarchies of middle school while dealing with the fallout of a mysterious curse. While the tone is light and humorous, it addresses the very real anxiety of shame and the social consequences of one's actions. It is a safe, low-stakes way for children aged 7 to 12 to explore how to fix things when they have messed up, all within a world they already love and understand.