Out of Patience

Reach for this book when your child feels stifled by family expectations or embarrassed by a quirky home life. It is the perfect antidote for a middle schooler who feels like they are the only 'normal' person in a house full of eccentrics. The story follows Jake, a boy living in a town obsessed with a bizarre historical legacy involving the first flushing toilet, as he navigates the weight of his family's 'curse' and their peculiar museum. It explores themes of self-confidence, the importance of carving out one's own identity, and finding the humor in awkward situations. While the premise is intentionally silly, it offers a sincere look at how children can respect their heritage without letting it define their entire future. It is a lighthearted, humorous read ideal for ages 9 to 12 that normalizes the 'cringe' many kids feel toward their parents' hobbies.