Juneberry Blue

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the ache of a long-distance separation from a parent, particularly due to military service or work. It provides a gentle, safe space to process the 'waiting room' phase of life, where time feels sluggish and emotions are unpredictable. Andie spends her summer at her grandmother's diner, hoping to discover her family's legendary 'magic' touch in the kitchen. While the story flirts with the whimsical idea of magical recipes, it is grounded in the reality of a girl missing her father. It is a middle-grade story that validates a child's desire for things to go back to normal while encouraging them to find their own unique spark in the meantime. Parents will appreciate how it models a healthy multigenerational bond and the quiet strength of staying busy with creative pursuits during difficult times.