Murphy

A parent might reach for this book when their child is struggling with anxiety and withdrawal after a parent has left home. Murphy tells the story of Mike, a young boy whose world feels shaky after his father's departure. He has trouble sleeping and feels a constant worry in his stomach. When he finds an injured duckling, he names him Murphy and secretly nurses him back to health. Through his focused, gentle care for the duck, Mike begins to process his own feelings of hurt and abandonment, slowly finding the strength to reconnect with his family. This gentle, quiet chapter book is ideal for ages 7 to 9, offering a comforting, metaphorical story that helps children understand that healing takes time, and that caring for others can be a way to care for ourselves.