Hamster

Reach for this book if your child is approaching the transition to middle school and seems overwhelmed by the shifting social landscape. It serves as a gentle anchor for children who feel like they are fading into the background or 'hamster-wheeling' through social anxieties while trying to fit in. The story follows a young protagonist navigating the pressures of new friendships, the fear of being left out, and the quiet courage required to be oneself in a loud world. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to normalize the 'first-day jitters' and spark honest conversations about social identity. Recommended for ages 9 to 12, this chapter book provides a realistic and relatable roadmap for surviving the middle school social maze without losing your sense of self.