Heart of Stone

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the idea of 'unhappy endings' or feeling like their creative voice doesn't matter in a world that can feel unfair. It is an ideal choice for the young reader who is sensitive to the power of words and needs to see that storytelling is not just a hobby, but a form of resilience. Following the events of Mistress of the Storm, Verity and her friends face the Earth Witch, a villain determined to strip the world of hope by destroying every happy ending. This middle-grade fantasy uses the metaphor of 'stones' and 'stories' to explore deep emotional themes of loyalty, the necessity of hope, and the courage required to stand up against systemic cruelty. While it contains moments of magical peril and suspense, it remains firmly rooted in the strength of friendship. It is perfectly suited for children aged 8 to 12 who enjoy high-stakes adventure but are also beginning to contemplate the balance between good and evil in their own lives.