Nadia's New Home

A parent would reach for this book when their child is struggling with the messy, overlapping feelings of a family transition, such as moving to a new town or adjusting to life after a divorce. While the story centers on four students competing in an Academic Bowl, its heartbeat is the way these children navigate loneliness and the need for belonging. Through the character of Nadia and her peers, the book explores how kids can find strength in their own unique identities and the power of supportive friendships. It is a sophisticated, heartwarming choice for middle schoolers who feel like they do not quite fit the traditional mold. Parents will appreciate how it treats complex emotions with respect and intelligence, showing that while family changes are difficult, they also provide opportunities for unexpected connections and personal growth.