Our Own Little Paradise

Reach for this book when you notice your child feeling the sting of social comparison or the pressure to keep up with more affluent peers. It is a deeply empathetic story about Ina, a sixth grader who lies about going to the tropics for summer break because she is ashamed of her family's financial struggles. When a new classmate discovers the truth, they transform a dusty basement into their own private paradise. This book handles the heavy themes of poverty and social exclusion with a light, imaginative touch. It is perfect for children ages 9 to 12 who are navigating the complex social hierarchies of middle school. Parents will appreciate how it validates the feeling of being left out while celebrating the power of creativity and genuine friendship to heal the wounds of shame.