The Game of Noctis

Reach for this book when your child is feeling the weight of unfair circumstances or needs to see that their worth is not determined by their bank account. Set in a lush, Venetian-inspired world of floating islands and high-stakes magic, it follows twelve-year-old Pia as she enters a dangerous tournament to save her home and her beloved grandfather. It is a perfect choice for kids who love the adrenaline of competition but are also ready to explore deeper themes of systemic inequality and the power of chosen family. Beyond the excitement of the Game of Noctis, the story beautifully models resilience and the importance of ethical choices when the odds are stacked against you. While the fantasy setting provides a safe distance, the emotional core deals with very real experiences of financial hardship and the drive to prove oneself. It is an empowering, fast-paced read that reinforces that even the smallest players can change the rules of the game.