Patty Fairfield

Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving to a new city or navigating the varying expectations of different family members. It is especially resonant for kids who feel like they are constantly performing different versions of themselves to please others. The story follows fourteen year old Patty Fairfield as she spends a year rotating between four very different households, from the strict and traditional to the wealthy and indulgent. Through Patty's journey, the book explores themes of adaptability, manners, and the search for authentic belonging. Written in the early 20th century, it offers a gentle lens on social dynamics and character development. It is an excellent choice for modeling social grace and resilience while validating the common childhood feeling of being a fish out of water in new environments.