Katie Starting from Scratch

Reach for this book when your child is facing a major family shift, such as a parent starting a serious relationship or the introduction of a potential step-sibling. It is especially resonant for only children who feel their 'territory' is being invaded by a newcomer who seems to do everything right. In this story, Katie deals with the complex anxiety of watching her friends and mother embrace Emily, her mom's boyfriend's daughter. It addresses themes of jealousy, social insecurity, and the fear of being replaced in a relatable, low-stakes environment involving school life and a baking club. The story is gentle and highly appropriate for elementary readers, providing a safe space to explore the messy feelings that come with blended family dynamics without being overly heavy or dramatic. It serves as a helpful tool to validate a child's feelings of displacement while showing that love and friendship are not finite resources.