
A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling deep anxiety about moving to a new home or starting a new school. This story follows Margaret, a resourceful and determined girl who uses a wheelchair, as she navigates the emotional upheaval of her family's move to the city. The book directly addresses the sadness of leaving friends and the fear of the unknown, but focuses on Margaret's proactive and clever approach to adapting. It's a wonderful choice for ages 8 to 12 because it validates a child's worries while providing a comforting and empowering example of resilience, problem-solving, and the possibility of finding happiness and friendship in a new place.
The book's main character has a physical disability (spina bifida). The approach is direct, secular, and empowering. Her disability is a practical reality she navigates, but the story's focus is on her capability, intelligence, and emotional experience, which is universal. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, emphasizing her agency and resilience.
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Sign in to write a reviewAn 8 to 11 year old child facing a move, who is feeling overwhelmed and powerless. It is especially powerful for a child who feels different for any reason (disability, shyness, etc.) and is worried about fitting in. It also serves as an excellent empathy-builder for children welcoming a new student to their school.
No preparation is needed; the book can be read cold. The 1985 publication date may be noticeable in small details, but the emotional core is timeless. The portrayal of Margaret's disability is positive and matter-of-fact, focusing on her abilities. A child expresses intense sadness or fear about an upcoming move, saying things like, "I'll have no friends," "Everything will be different," or "I don't want to go." The parent is looking for a story that models a proactive, rather than passive, way of coping.
A younger reader (8-9) will connect strongly with the core emotions of sadness, loneliness, and the joy of making a new friend. An older reader (10-12) will appreciate the nuance of Margaret's ingenuity, her growing independence, and her realistic approach to problem-solving.
This book stands out by centering a protagonist with a physical disability in a universal story about moving. It skillfully avoids tropes of pity or inspiration, instead presenting Margaret as a capable and relatable character whose disability is simply one aspect of her life. Her focus on practical solutions and engineering her own environment is unique and empowering.
Margaret, a pragmatic and resourceful young girl with spina bifida who uses a wheelchair, is upset when her family announces a move to the city. The story traces her emotional journey from the sadness of leaving a familiar, accessible home to the challenges of navigating a new house and school. Rather than waiting for things to happen, Margaret actively problem-solves, from adapting her new bedroom to figuring out how to make friends. The plot centers on these small but significant victories that build her confidence and help her establish a sense of belonging.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.