Growing Pangs

Reach for this book when you notice your child becoming preoccupied with specific rituals, 'lucky' numbers, or intrusive thoughts that seem to dictate their day. While many children experience phases of perfectionism, this graphic memoir offers a compassionate look at the internal weight of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder through the eyes of eleven-year-old Katie. As she navigates the transition to middle school and the shifting dynamics of her friendships, she begins to name the 'buzzing' in her head for what it is. This story is an excellent tool for families navigating neurodivergence or anxiety. It provides a realistic, secular, and gentle framework for understanding that mental health struggles do not define a person. By following Katie to summer camp and through her homeschooling journey, children ages 8 to 12 will find a relatable mirror for their own 'growing pangs' and social anxieties. It is a validating choice for parents looking to normalize therapy and mental health conversations in a low-pressure way.