A Game of Fox & Squirrels

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the aftermath of family trauma, domestic instability, or the heavy burden of trying to 'fix' adult relationships. This story provides a vital, safe space for children who feel responsible for their parents' happiness or who have learned to suppress their own needs to keep the peace. It is especially resonant for kids who have been displaced or are living with relatives after a crisis. Eleven-year-old Sam and her sister Caitlin have been sent to live with their aunt and uncle following an incident involving their father's temper. When a magical fox offers Sam a quest to find a legendary Golden Fawn that can grant a wish, Sam believes she can use it to make her family 'perfect' again. Through this clever blend of urban fantasy and psychological realism, the book explores themes of gaslighting, trauma, and the courage it takes to choose one's own well-being over a toxic family dynamic. While the subject matter is serious, the magical framework makes it accessible for children ages 8 to 12, offering a hopeful path toward healing and self-advocacy.