The Ship We Built

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling that they do not fit into the standard boxes of identity or when they are struggling to find a safe way to express deep, heavy secrets. It is a profound resource for children who feel invisible at home or misunderstood by peers, offering a mirror for those questioning their gender identity. The story follows Rowan, a child who feels like neither the right kind of boy nor the right kind of girl. While the plot involves letters sent into the world on balloons, the heart of the book deals with the internal courage required to trust someone else with your truth. Parents should be aware that the book addresses serious themes, including domestic trauma and neglect, making it most suitable for middle schoolers aged 10 to 14. It is a vital choice for fostering empathy and providing a lifeline to children who feel profoundly alone in their experiences.