Kodiak

For a child feeling nervous about a new step toward independence, like a first sleepover or starting a new school, Kodiak offers a gentle and empowering mirror. The story follows a young Kodiak bear as he leaves his mother for the first time and must learn to survive on his own. It masterfully translates the bear's natural journey into a relatable emotional arc for a 6 to 9-year-old, touching on fear, bravery, loneliness, and the quiet pride of self-reliance. This book is a wonderful tool for normalizing the scary feelings that come with growing up and modeling the perseverance needed to build confidence.