Sam the Man & the Rutabaga Plan

Reach for this book when your child is starting to take on new responsibilities or needs a gentle push to engage with the world around them. Sam is a relatable second-grader who finds himself the 'parent' of a rutabaga for a school project. While it starts as a funny assignment, the story unfolds into a heartwarming exploration of how caring for something small can connect us to our community and family in unexpected ways. It is a perfect choice for kids who appreciate dry humor and realistic school scenarios. This early chapter book is ideal for ages 6 to 9, offering a low-stakes but meaningful look at accountability. Through Sam's interactions with his teenage sister, his parents, and his elderly neighbor, readers see a model of kindness and patience. It is an excellent tool for parents looking to discuss the transition from being cared for to being a caretaker, all while keeping the tone light, funny, and grounded in everyday life.