Soldier Mom

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the sudden absence of a parent due to work, military service, or changing family roles. It speaks directly to the 'middle school' transition where a child must suddenly step up and manage adult-sized responsibilities while their emotional world feels fragile. The story follows eleven-year-old Jasmyn as her mother is deployed to the Persian Gulf, leaving Jasmyn to navigate chores, a baby brother, and soccer season with her mother's boyfriend. It is a grounded, realistic look at resilience and the complex feelings of resentment and pride that come with being part of a military family. Written for ages 9 to 12, it validates the stress of being the one left behind and provides a roadmap for finding strength in community and new family structures.