Just Pretend

"Just Pretend" is a poignant graphic novel that explores the emotional landscape of a young girl named Tori as she grapples with her parents' divorce, adjusting to two homes, and the evolving dynamics of her friendships at school. Feeling misunderstood and like a "little kid" by her family, Tori retreats into a rich, imaginative fantasy world she creates through her writing. This internal narrative, filled with fairies and witches, becomes her primary coping mechanism, helping her process her feelings and find her inner strength. The book beautifully illustrates how creativity can be a powerful tool for resilience, offering a gentle yet honest portrayal of common childhood anxieties. It's ideal for children aged 8-11 who might be experiencing similar family changes or struggling with social challenges.

Tori has never lived in just one world. Since her parents' divorce, she's lived in both her mom's house and her dad's new apartment. And in both places, no matter how hard she tries, her family still treats her like a little kid. Then there's school, where friendships old and new are starting to feel more and more out of her hands. Thankfully, she has books-and writing. And now the stories she makes up in her head just might save her when everything else around her—friendships, school, family—is falling apart. Author Tori Sharp takes us with her on a journey through the many commonplace but complex issues of fractured families, as well as the beautiful fantasy narrative that helps her cope, gorgeously illustrated and full of magic, fairies, witches and lost and found friendships.