Jewel of the Thames

Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is navigating a major life transition, such as a move to a new city or a sudden shift in family dynamics, and needs to see a protagonist who turns displacement into an opportunity for self-discovery. The story follows Portia Adams, who is abruptly uprooted from Toronto to London in the 1930s after the death of her mother, only to discover she has inherited the estate of a very famous (and very fictional) detective. It is a sophisticated mystery that explores themes of autonomy, cultural identity, and the courage required to claim one's own legacy. Parents will appreciate the historical richnes and the way Portia handles her grief by engaging her intellect and curiosity. It is an empowering choice for children aged 10 to 14 who feel like outsiders or who are searching for their own unique voice in a world that expects them to fit into a certain mold.