Runaway

Reach for this book when your child is feeling the weight of high expectations or struggling to bridge the gap between who they are and who their family wants them to be. This prequel story follows Princess Foeslayer and Prince Arctic, two dragons from rival tribes who choose to abandon their royal duties and familiar homes for a chance at a life together. It is a nuanced exploration of loyalty, the bravery required to be an outsider, and the complicated reality of leaving one's culture behind. While set in a high-fantasy world of dragons, the emotional core deals with the loneliness of being misunderstood and the hope of finding a place where you truly belong. It is perfect for middle-grade readers (ages 8 to 12) who enjoy epic adventures but are also starting to navigate their own independent identities. Parents will appreciate how it validates the difficult choice of following one's heart over tradition while acknowledging the sacrifices that come with those big life changes.