Maddie and Mabel

Reach for this book when your oldest child is struggling with the transition from being the only star to sharing the spotlight with a younger sibling. While many books focus on the arrival of a new baby, this collection of early chapter stories addresses the more nuanced stage where both children are old enough to compete, compare, and eventually cooperate. It offers a gentle roadmap for navigating those tricky moments when a big sister wants to lead and a little sister wants to be heard. The stories follow Maddie and Mabel as they work through everyday scenarios involving play, patience, and the occasional hurt feeling. By modeling healthy communication and the art of the apology, the book helps children ages 6 to 9 recognize that sibling bonds are a work in progress. Parents will appreciate how the text validates the big sister's need for autonomy while emphasizing the joy found in being a team.