Julia and the Shark

Reach for this book when your child is noticing a parent's emotional withdrawal or struggling to understand why someone they love 'isn't themselves.' This story provides a safe, metaphorical bridge to discuss the complexities of clinical depression and the heavy toll it takes on a family unit. Julia's summer on a remote island is defined by her mother's obsessive search for the elusive Greenland shark, a quest that mirrors her mother's internal descent into mental illness. The narrative is deeply compassionate, blending the wonder of marine biology with a raw, honest look at adult fragility through a ten-year-old's eyes. While it addresses serious themes, it is ultimately a story of resilience and the enduring light of family love. It is best suited for mature middle-grade readers who are ready for a nuanced, non-linear exploration of hope and healing.