Isabel: Jewel of Castilla, Spain, 1466

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of expectations or feels like their personal choices are constantly being managed by others. It is an ideal pick for the middle schooler who needs to see that standing firm in one's values is a timeless struggle, even for a princess. The story follows young Isabel of Castilla as she navigates a treacherous court where she is used as a political pawn. Through her secret diary, readers witness her journey from a quiet, controlled girl to a resilient young woman who learns to say no to powerful men, including her own brother. It is a sophisticated historical portrait that balances the glamour of royalty with the gritty reality of 15th-century politics. Parents will appreciate how it models internal strength and the importance of integrity over popularity. It is a steady, reflective read for ages 9 to 14, providing a historical mirror for modern questions of autonomy and self-worth.