Julia's Kitchen

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the profound, complicated grief of losing a family member and is struggling to see a path back to normalcy. It is especially poignant for children who feel they have to 'be strong' for a grieving parent or who find comfort in the sensory rituals of baking and tradition. The story follows ten-year-old Cara as she navigates life after a house fire claims the lives of her mother and younger sister. Through the lens of her Jewish faith and her mother's passion for cooking, Cara searches for a way to bridge the gap between her past and a future that feels frighteningly empty. This is a deeply emotional but ultimately restorative read, perfect for middle-grade readers (ages 9-12) who are ready for a realistic, honest exploration of resilience and the enduring power of memory.