Karen's Paper Route

Reach for this book when your child starts expressing a desire for more independence or begins asking for their own money to buy toys and treats. It is an ideal bridge for the transition from play-centered childhood to the early responsibilities of being a big kid. In this installment of the popular series, seven-year-old Karen Brewer takes over a neighborhood paper route. Through her journey, she learns that having a job is about more than just earning a paycheck: it requires physical stamina, punctuality, and the grit to keep going even when you are tired. The story beautifully captures the pride of earned success while remaining grounded in the reality of a second-grader's life. Written for the 7 to 10 age group, this book is a fantastic tool for discussing the value of hard work and the satisfaction of contributing to the community. It normalizes the 'growing pains' of responsibility in a way that feels achievable and exciting rather than overwhelming.