River Secrets

Reach for this book when your child feels overshadowed by the 'stars' in their peer group or struggles to find their own worth in a competitive environment. While set in a lush fantasy world, it is at its heart a story about a boy named Razo who believes he lacks the spectacular magical talents of his friends. As he joins a diplomatic mission to a foreign land, he discovers that his keen observation, empathy, and gift for friendship are just as vital as any superpower. Shannon Hale crafts a sophisticated mystery that addresses the anxiety of not being 'enough.' It is ideal for middle schoolers (ages 10-14) who are navigating the transition from childhood play to the complex social hierarchies of adolescence. Parents will appreciate how the story validates quiet strengths like kindness and humor over brute force or magical flash, providing a comforting yet exciting roadmap for self-acceptance.