Eric

Reach for this book when your child is struggling to connect with someone who seems different, or when they feel like an outsider themselves. It is a gentle tool for navigating the uncertainty that comes with hosting a guest, meeting a new student, or understanding a friend with unique interests. The story follows a tiny, leaf-like exchange student named Eric who stays with a host family. While the narrator worries about Eric's unconventional behavior, like sleeping in a pantry or ignoring planned sightseeing, the ending reveals the beautiful, quiet ways Eric was actually engaging with his environment. Shaun Tan’s signature surrealist style provides a safe, metaphorical space to discuss hospitality, cultural differences, and the value of observing rather than judging. It is a short, visually stunning read that helps children find the magic in things they don't initially understand. While it is appropriate for all ages, the subtle emotional payoff is best suited for children ages 8 to 12 who are developing deeper empathy and social awareness.