Five Lives of Our Cat Zook, The

Reach for this book when your child is facing a transition they aren't quite ready for, whether it's the illness of a pet, the introduction of a new partner in the home, or lingering grief over a lost parent. Through the eyes of ten-year-old Oona, this story explores how storytelling and imagination can act as a bridge between the life we had and the new reality we are building. It is a deeply compassionate look at the 'messy' parts of healing, acknowledging that anger and resistance are natural parts of love. While it touches on heavy themes, the bond between Oona and her younger brother Fred provides a layer of warmth and humor that keeps the tone accessible for middle-grade readers. It is an ideal choice for families looking to normalize the complex feelings that arise when a family unit evolves.