The City

A parent would reach for this book when their child is beginning to explore the boundary between safe childhood and the darker realities of the world, specifically through a love of scary stories. It is perfect for a child who enjoys the thrill of a campfire tale but needs a story that also reinforces the value of resilience, friendship, and finding a sense of belonging in the face of loss. The story follows two young foxes, Mia and Uly, who are separated from their families and forced to navigate a landscape filled with both supernatural and all-too-real dangers. While the book uses horror tropes like zombies and witches, these are metaphors for real-world threats like disease, cruelty, and abandonment. It is a Newbery Honor winner that provides a sophisticated emotional experience for middle-grade readers, helping them process fear in a controlled, literary environment. It is best suited for ages 9 to 13, particularly those who are ready for a more intense, high-stakes adventure.