Macaroni Boy

Reach for this book when your child is facing a neighborhood bully, struggling with new responsibilities, or asking questions about how families survive through financial hardship. Set in 1933 Pittsburgh, it follows Mike Costa as he balances helping at his family's grocery warehouse with a dangerous mystery involving poisoned rats and a sick grandfather. It is a grounding story about grit and integrity that shows how a young person can make a difference even when the world feels heavy. This middle-grade novel is perfect for ages 8 to 12. It offers a realistic look at the Great Depression while maintaining a sense of hope and agency. Parents will appreciate the strong emphasis on family loyalty and the way Mike learns to stand up for himself without losing his empathy for others.