Rieden Reece and the Virtual Girl

A parent would reach for this book when their middle schooler feels overwhelmed by the pressure to lead or is struggling with the anxiety of meeting adult expectations. It is a perfect fit for children who feel like they are constantly having to 'fix' things for others while managing their own internal stress. Rieden Reece is a relatable thirteen-year-old dealing with real anxiety and anger, forced into a leadership role when all the adults in his town are frozen in time. As Rieden leads a ragtag group of friends and bullies through a high-stakes virtual reality simulation to save their planet, the story explores themes of teamwork, self-confidence, and social responsibility. While it is an action-packed science fiction adventure, its true value lies in how it models navigating complex social dynamics and managing personal worry under pressure. It is highly appropriate for the 8-12 age range, offering a 'play-or-die' gaming hook that keeps reluctant readers engaged while reinforcing the importance of empathy and unity.