Liesl & Po

Reach for this book when your child is processing a significant loss or struggling with a deep sense of isolation. It is a soul-soothing choice for the middle-grade reader who feels 'trapped' by their circumstances or is asking big questions about what happens after we die. The story follows Liesl, a lonely girl locked in an attic, and Po, a ghost who is neither scary nor fully human, as they embark on a journey to bridge the gap between worlds. While the premise involves an orphan and a ghost, the focus is on the healing power of friendship and the hope that comes from being truly seen. Lauren Oliver uses a lyrical, fairy-tale style to handle heavy themes like grief and neglect with a gentle touch. It is an ideal pick for ages 8 to 12, offering a safe, magical space to explore sadness without feeling overwhelmed by it. Parents will appreciate how the book validates a child's complex emotions while steering them toward a sense of agency and connection.