The Queen Bee and Me

Reach for this book when you notice your child shrinking themselves to keep a long-term friend happy or when they are struggling to navigate the intense social hierarchies of middle school. Meg has always been the sidekick to the charismatic and controlling Beatrix, but as her interest in science and bees grows, she begins to realize that a true friend should help you bloom, not keep you in the shade. It is a nuanced look at the difference between history and healthy loyalty. This story beautifully explores the quiet courage required to set boundaries and the anxiety of outgrowing a childhood bond. It is perfectly suited for children ages 8 to 12 who are starting to find their own voices and interests. Parents will appreciate how it validates the difficulty of 'breaking up' with a toxic friend while offering a hopeful path toward finding a community that truly fits.