Egg on Three Sticks, An

A parent would reach for this book when their child is beginning to notice that a parent or loved one is struggling with a deep, persistent mental health crisis that cannot be fixed with love or good behavior. Set in the 1970s, it follows Abby as her mother experiences a severe nervous breakdown and attempted suicide, forcing Abby to navigate a world where her primary caregiver is no longer stable. This novel is a powerful tool for middle schoolers and young teens who feel the crushing weight of responsibility for a parent's well-being. It explores themes of shame, resentment, and the difficult process of 'letting go' of the role of the family fixer. While the subject matter is heavy, the book provides a vital mirror for children in similar situations, normalizing their anger and providing a realistic path toward personal resilience and emotional independence.