Slime for Dinner

Reach for this book when your child is facing a situation that feels 'icky' or intimidating, whether it is a new food, a strange place, or an upcoming event they are dreading. Geronimo Stilton is the ultimate relatable hero for children who struggle with anxiety, as he often feels out of place and overwhelmed by the world around him. This graphic novel adaptation follows Geronimo as he navigates a mysterious castle dinner where every dish looks like gross slime. It is a fantastic tool for normalizing the feeling of being nervous while using humor to lower a child's defenses. While the setting is a spooky castle, the tone remains light and slapstick, making it appropriate for elementary schoolers aged 7 to 10. Parents will appreciate how the story validates the protagonist's discomfort while encouraging curiosity and resilience. The visual format of the graphic novel, enhanced by Tom Angleberger's signature wacky style, helps reluctant readers engage with complex emotional themes like sensory aversion and social pressure in a way that feels like pure fun rather than a lesson.